CDS General Musa Concludes Benue Visit, Vows to End Senseless Killings: “This Must Stop”
Pan Afric Reporters Makurdi, Nigeria – June 17 , 2025
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has concluded a crucial two-day assessment visit to Benue State, following recent violent attacks in the region. Received by the Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General MK Gara, and other senior military officers, General Musa visited Yelwata, a community recently hit by deadly violence.
Accompanied by the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, and the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, the CDS held a strategic community dialogue with local leaders, including traditional rulers and religious figures. The meeting aimed to address growing security concerns and chart a path forward.
Describing the attacks as “uncalled for and senseless,” General Musa according to a press release e-signed by Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau offered condolences to victims and their families, condemning the violence and calling for united action. “We must all agree this must stop,” he declared, urging community cooperation with security agencies to eliminate criminal elements and restore peace.
Inspector General Egbetokun echoed the CDS’s sentiments, assuring residents of the police’s unwavering resolve to hunt down perpetrators and restore normalcy. “We will not sleep or rest until justice is served,” he stated.
Governor Alia, visibly distressed by the recent tragedies, said the state’s leadership was committed to ending the bloodshed. He expressed hope that the presence of top security officials would rekindle faith among the people.
On the second day of his visit, General Musa hosted a town hall meeting with stakeholders from all three geopolitical zones of the state. Participants included first-class traditional rulers, youth leaders, and prominent citizens. The Defence Chief urged unity and trust in the military, emphasizing that collaboration with security forces is key to lasting peace.
The visit also featured an operational briefing at the Headquarters of the 401 Special Forces Brigade. General Musa directed commanders to intensify efforts to protect lives and property and to engage closely with local communities in building sustainable solutions.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace and stability in Benue State.
