Benue Massacre: Locals Aided Killers with Food, Women, and Intel — Defence Chief Alleges

In a startling revelation, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has accused residents of a Benue community of actively aiding the armed criminals responsible for a recent massacre in the state.

Speaking on the tragic incident, the CDS alleged that the attackers were not only harboured by locals but were also provided with food and even women. He further claimed that the assailants were given strategic information, including directions to the nearby Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, where some of the attacks reportedly occurred.

“These criminals were harboured by people in the community. They were given food. They were even given women. They were guided on where the IDP camp was located. Yet, security forces received no information,” Gen. Musa said, expressing deep disappointment over the apparent complicity.

He emphasized the critical role of community involvement in ensuring national security, stressing that the lack of cooperation from the locals hindered timely intervention by security personnel.

“This is why we consistently urge communities to be vigilant and report suspicious activities. Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he added.

The Defence Chief’s comments come amid growing concern over persistent attacks in Benue and other parts of the Middle Belt, where clashes between armed groups and vulnerable communities have led to repeated bloodshed and displacement.