DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS DENIES MILITARY SABOTAGE IN BENUE KILLINGS

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked claims that internal sabotage within the Nigerian military contributed to the recent massacre in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. Reacting to widespread speculation, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, described such reports as “unfounded and not supported by credible evidence.”
General Gusau stated that investigations conducted by both the military and independent bodies, including human rights organisations, have not established any link between the Nigerian Armed Forces and the perpetrators of the massacre. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has also publicly distanced the military from any involvement in the killings.
He further explained that the Yelwata massacre reflects the broader pattern of intercommunal violence across Nigeria’s Middle Belt, driven by longstanding land disputes, ethnic tensions, and competition over scarce resources. “Blaming the military distracts from the real issues at play,” Gusau said. “We must focus on the root causes and strengthen peace-building efforts across affected communities.”
Gusau appealed to community leaders to cooperate with security agencies by reporting criminal elements and avoiding the shielding of suspects. He reassured the public of the military’s continued commitment to peacekeeping and protection of civilian lives.