Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has attributed the recent massacre in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where over 100 people were killed, to alleged insider collaboration, warning that such internal compromise is emboldening attackers.
During a visit to the affected area on Monday, General Musa expressed dismay over the scale and coordination of the attack, describing it as a clear indicator of betrayal from within.
“In my estimation, it is one killing too many. The nature of the burnings and targeted strikes shows insider involvement. Some individuals are feeding information to the attackers,” he stated.
The Defence Chief met with Governor Hyacinth Alia and community members, calling for greater vigilance and unity among residents.
“We are going to change our strategies and look inwards. But we cannot do it alone. We need the communities to be part of this effort,” Musa said.
He emphasized the military’s commitment to revamping its operations and working more closely with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community heads to rebuild trust and enhance intelligence gathering.
“There may be issues of trust, and we are going to address them. We want this to be the last attack of this nature. We will go all out to ensure peace is restored,” he assured.
As part of broader security measures, Musa disclosed plans to replicate successful strategies from other volatile regions in Benue State, as well as bolster coordination with neighboring states like Nasarawa, which has been identified as a corridor for armed invaders.
“We consistently receive intel suggesting that attackers cross into Benue from neighboring states or beyond. Wherever they’re coming from, we’ll go after them we can’t keep waiting for them to strike first.”
The CDS called on Nigerians especially the youth to stay resilient and committed to national unity in the face of repeated violence.
“This is our country. We must not give up. This madness must stop,” he declared.
In response to the visit, Guma Local Government Chairman, Maurice Orwough, welcomed the military’s presence, describing it as a morale booster and a much-needed federal response.
“The visit of the Chief of Defence Staff gives our people a sense of hope. It allows us to share firsthand what is really happening and what we need,” Orwough said.
He added that the community is beginning to regain confidence in the government’s ability to restore peace and security.
