Benue Under Siege: Defence Chief Cries Out Over Alarming Insider Links To Mass Murder

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has expressed deep concern over possible insider involvement in the recent wave of violent attacks in Benue State.

Speaking during a visit to Yelewata in Guma Local Government Area — the site of a brutal assault that left over 100 people dead — General Musa described the incident as “one killing too many,” warning that the pattern of attacks suggests targeted operations aided by local collaborators.

“There are clear signs that some individuals may be providing critical intelligence to these attackers,” the CDS stated. “The precision of the burnings and killings points to insider compromise.”

The Saturday massacre is among the deadliest in Benue this year, prompting the military chief to conduct an on-the-ground assessment and meet with Governor Hyacinth Alia as well as affected community members.

In response to the tragedy, General Musa announced a revision of the military’s strategy in the region. He emphasized the need for stronger cooperation with traditional rulers, local leaders, and residents, stating, “We are shifting focus inward. But this is not something the military can handle alone. Communities must actively participate.”

Musa acknowledged existing issues of trust and vowed to address them head-on. “We’re committed to rebuilding trust and ensuring that this becomes the last attack of its kind. Restoring peace is our top priority.”

He also revealed plans to visit neighboring Nasarawa State to boost cross-border intelligence and security coordination. “We often get reports that these assailants cross into Benue from outside. Wherever they’re hiding, we will pursue them. We must act before they strike,” he warned.

The Defence Chief used the occasion to urge Nigerian youths to remain resilient despite ongoing insecurity. “This is our country. We cannot abandon it. This madness must end,” he declared passionately.

Guma LGA Chairman, Maurice Orwough, praised the CDS’s visit, calling it a powerful show of concern. “This visit renews our hope. It shows that the federal government is not turning a blind eye to Benue’s pain,” Orwough said, adding that local leaders appreciated the opportunity to relay their concerns directly to military authorities.