The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to restoring peace in Benue State and facilitating the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral communities.
General Musa made the declaration during a high-level peace advocacy meeting with traditional leaders, including the Tor Tiv, Professor James Ortese Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, John Odogbo, at the Government House in Makurdi.
The meeting, monitored by WorldClass247News, is part of ongoing efforts to address the security challenges plaguing the state ranging from herder attacks to kidnapping and banditry.
Describing the military as partners in peacebuilding, the Defence Chief called on royal fathers to support security agencies in securing lives and property, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.
“We have a challenge in Benue State, and I believe that working together, we will find a solution,” General Musa stated. “When we sit down and talk sincerely, bringing out all that is affecting us, we’ll be able to find the solution.”
In his response, the Tor Tiv commended General Musa’s sincerity and acknowledged improvements since their last engagement. He also admitted that some community members, including cattle rustlers, had played a role in fueling the conflict.
“Our people also have some roles in the conflict, including cattle rustling. We are taking responsibility and working to bring our people under control,” he said, urging security agencies to apprehend and prosecute any wrongdoers without bias.
The Och’Idoma also echoed calls for justice and accountability, while distinguishing between peaceful Fulani settlers and violent herders.
“We are not saying all Fulani should leave. The known, peaceful ones have been with us for years,” he noted. “We are asking only those carrying arms, killing, raping, and destroying farms to leave.”
General Musa expressed concern that certain individuals—both internal and external—were benefiting from the prolonged crisis for political or economic reasons. He maintained that the military would not tolerate any form of criminality, regardless of the perpetrator’s identity.
“Anybody bearing arms illegally will be arrested. If he threatens security forces, he will be neutralized,” he asserted, adding that the military is committed to replicating peacebuilding successes recorded in other troubled parts of the country.
He also confirmed that suspects behind the recent attacks in Yelwata have been apprehended and would soon be prosecuted.
“There will be no sacred persons. Anyone involved in violence must face justice,” the CDS declared.
On the resettlement of displaced persons, General Musa said Yelwata has been stabilized with additional troops deployed, paving the way for IDPs to begin returning to their homes. He also addressed concerns over Cameronian refugees allegedly contributing to local tensions, stating that plans are in motion to repatriate them in collaboration with relevant authorities.
“The true measure of our success is when IDPs leave the camps and return home. That is our goal,” he said.