Benue Killings: Defence Chief Calls for Youth Vigilante Training Under Military Supervision
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| General Christopher Musa |
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has called for the training and deployment of trusted youths in Benue State to serve as community-based vigilantes under the direct supervision of the military, as a proactive measure to combat persistent terrorist and armed attacks.
Speaking in Makurdi during a meeting with traditional rulers, Gen. Musa said the approach had been successfully used in Borno State and could be replicated in Benue to curb the rising insecurity.
“The military cannot do it alone,” he said. “We need full cooperation from the communities, traditional leaders, and religious figures. Some of these attacks clearly involve insider support, and we must stand united.”
He issued a stern warning to local leaders against shielding criminals, adding that sabotage would not be tolerated.
“We are tired of seeing innocent people being slaughtered. We're here to make sure it stops,” the CDS declared.
Spike in Violence Triggers National, Global Outcry
Benue State has witnessed a surge in deadly attacks, with over 160 people killed in the last two months. A recent overnight raid in Yelewata left at least 59 dead and displaced more than 3,000 residents.
The worsening situation has drawn international attention, with Pope Leo XIV describing the massacre as “terrible.” In Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has condemned the killings and directed urgent action.
The President has instructed Governor Hyacinth Alia to lead peace and reconciliation efforts between farmers and herders, while ordering service chiefs to take decisive steps to restore peace in the region.
Military, Police Chiefs Visit Affected Communities
Gen. Musa, accompanied by Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, visited the affected areas to assess the situation firsthand. Both security leaders directed field commanders to reassess their strategies and launch swift operations against the perpetrators.
Musa also encouraged cooperation between Benue and neighbouring states, stressing that regional collaboration is crucial to ending the cycle of violence.
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