Defence Chief Urges Vigilante Training for Benue Youths to Curb Insecurity

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has proposed the training of trusted youths across Benue State to serve as vigilantes under military supervision, as part of a strategy to defend local communities against terrorist and insurgent attacks.

During a meeting with traditional rulers in Makurdi on Tuesday, General Musa explained that a similar approach had been successful in Borno State and could be adapted to the unique challenges facing Benue. He emphasized that community leaders must play a critical role in identifying criminal elements within their domains, warning that any form of sabotage would not be tolerated.

“The military cannot succeed alone. We need full collaboration from community leaders, elders, and religious figures. Some of these attacks clearly involve insider cooperation. That’s why we must stand united,” he said.
“We are tired of witnessing the slaughter of innocent citizens. We are here to ensure this ends.”

Benue continues to grapple with escalating violence. In just the last two months, more than 160 people have been killed, including 59 residents in a recent overnight attack in Yelewata, which also displaced over 3,000 people.

In a show of solidarity, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule visited Governor Hyacinth Alia to express condolences and donated ₦150 million to support the internally displaced. He also called for collaboration between the two states to bring an end to the bloodshed.

The rising death toll has triggered widespread outrage and international concern. Pope Leo XIV condemned the attacks as a “horrific massacre,” while President Bola Tinubu ordered immediate and decisive intervention.

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The President instructed Governor Alia to lead peace and reconciliation talks between farmers and herders and directed the service chiefs to swiftly restore peace and stability in the state.

Both General Musa and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun visited the affected communities and urged military field commanders to reassess their strategies and take firm action to neutralize the attackers.