COAS Storms Benue, Vows to Crush Killers Behind Villagers’ Massacre

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Tuesday stormed Benue State in a decisive move to confront the rising wave of brutal attacks on villagers by suspected herders and militia groups.

A top military source at the Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that the COAS was deeply concerned over the unrelenting killings and displacement of innocent citizens across several communities in the state.

Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, accompanied by Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) and other senior Army officials, arrived in the state to carry out an on-the-ground assessment of the volatile security situation.

“The COAS has also ordered more deployment of troops and logistics to the state to hunt down the armed groups terrorising the people of Benue,” the source revealed.

During his visit, the army chief is expected to meet with all operational and unit commanders for strategic discussions on how to end the bloodshed and restore peace. He will also conduct a review of ongoing operations aimed at dismantling the violent networks.

“While in Benue State, the COAS is expected to hold strategic meetings with all operational and unit commanders to brainstorm on the way forward as well as review the ongoing operations with a view to end the massacre.

“He is also expected to visit troops locations and operational bases in the state to interact with troops and boost their morale and fighting spirit.

“The COAS is also expected to visit villages that have been attacked and reassure residents of their safety and the resolve of the Nigerian army to protect lives and property of law abiding citizens.

“General Oluyede, while in the state, will personally lead troops in the operation in the battle front,” the source added.

This high-level intervention follows a disturbing series of attacks that have plunged parts of the state into mourning and chaos.

Among the most recent incidents was the May 24 assault on Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongo, who was ambushed while travelling from Makurdi to Naka, headquarters of Gwer-East Local Government Area. Though left for dead, he miraculously survived.

On May 29, Agan Community in Makurdi suffered a broad daylight attack with multiple fatalities reported.

Just days later, on June 1, coordinated attacks were launched on Naka (Gwer West Local Government headquarters) and Edikwu-Ankpali community in Apa Local Government Area, leading to several deaths and widespread displacement.

Similarly, in Naka town’s Tse-Antswam community, at least 17 people were killed in another suspected herdsmen attack. Edikwu and Ankpali communities also recorded 16 confirmed deaths, with others either missing or displaced.

Residents and observers are hopeful that the presence of the Army Chief and his direct involvement in operations will mark a turning point in the struggle to restore normalcy to Benue’s troubled areas.