BANDITRY: COAS RELOCATES TO BENUE

In response to the ongoing wave of violence in Benue State, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has relocated to Makurdi, the state capital, to lead efforts in curbing the deadly attacks on communities by armed herders and militia groups.

The frequent assaults, described by many as ethnic cleansing, have led to the deaths of dozens of villagers, injuries to many others, and the destruction of properties across several local government areas. Just last weekend, at least 43 people were killed in fresh attacks on communities in Gwer West and Apa LGAs.

General Oluyede, who left Abuja on Tuesday morning with his Principal Staff Officers and other top brass from Army Headquarters, is in the state to conduct an on-the-ground assessment of the situation. His visit aims to reinforce ongoing military operations and provide strategic direction to troops.

Reliable sources confirmed that the army chief has ordered the immediate deployment of additional troops to the region. He is also expected to hold high-level strategy sessions with operational and unit commanders, review current military actions, and consider leadership changes in a bid to strengthen the counteroffensive against the armed groups.

As part of his visit, the COAS will tour military bases and frontline locations to boost troop morale and ensure operational readiness. He will also visit affected communities to reassure residents of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to restoring peace and protecting lives and property.

General Oluyede is reportedly dissatisfied with the persistent reports of killings and may personally lead some of the operations while stationed in the state for a few days before returning to Abuja.

Benue State has been one of the worst-hit areas in recent times, with repeated attacks on villages leaving a trail of death and displacement. In a recent incident along the Makurdi-Naka road, suspected herdsmen shot and injured Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongo and launched deadly attacks on four villages, including the hometown of Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, killing 42 people — among them a mobile police officer.

The Army Chief’s presence in Benue underscores the seriousness of the security situation and the federal government’s resolve to bring an end to the bloodshed.