CDS Musa, Traditional Rulers unite in new push against banditry in Benue

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to partner with traditional rulers in restoring lasting peace and security across Benue State and other troubled parts of the country.

General Musa made this declaration on Thursday after a closed-door meeting at the Government House in Makurdi.

At the gathering, which brought together prominent traditional leaders, including the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Professor James Ortese Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty Dr. John Eliagwu, alongside other first and third-class chiefs from different parts of the state, the military chief stressed that the Armed Forces alone cannot secure the state without the full support of community leaders.

He described the meeting as a critical step in promoting truth, unity, and sincerity among all stakeholders and disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is personally invested in ending violence and restoring normalcy in Benue. This marks the second strategic engagement between the military and Benue’s traditional institutions in recent weeks.

General Musa also issued a stern warning to troops stationed in Benue, instructing them to confront and neutralize any threats from armed bandits and criminals. He emphasized that the measure of progress in the region would be the safe return of displaced persons to their homes, particularly in communities like Yelewata, which he assured is now secure following increased military presence.

In their respective remarks, the traditional rulers expressed strong support for the military’s operations. The Tor Tiv, Professor Ayatse, declared that anyone involved in criminal activities must be decisively dealt with, noting that security agencies have the full authority to act without favouritism.

On his part, the Och’Idoma, Dr. Eliagwu, affirmed that Benue State remains peace-loving and called on armed herdsmen to vacate the state to allow farmers access to their lands for planting and harvest seasons. He further stated that any herdsman wishing to remain in the state must fully comply with existing laws.

Both leaders praised the military’s current efforts and pledged to mobilize their communities for peace and reconciliation initiatives.