Army Chief relocates to Benue as Killings by armed groups escalate

In response to the relentless wave of violence plaguing Benue State, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja Oluyede, has moved his operational base to Makurdi, the state capital.

This move follows the recent surge in attacks by suspected herdsmen and militia groups, which have left dozens dead, many wounded, and scores of homes destroyed.

Deeply disturbed by the almost daily reports of brutality, the army chief departed Abuja on Tuesday morning with key officials from the Army Headquarters, including Principal Staff Officers.

His visit aims to provide a firsthand assessment of the crisis and to coordinate a stronger response on the ground.

To combat the growing insecurity, General Oluyede has ordered the immediate deployment of additional troops to the state.

The new reinforcements are tasked with aggressively confronting the armed elements responsible for the killings and restoring stability.

While in Benue, the COAS is set to conduct a series of high-level meetings with unit commanders to review current operations and devise more effective strategies.

He will also inspect military bases and front-line troops, boosting morale through direct interaction and reaffirming the army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

Sources close to the military say the army chief is considering major strategic changes, including the replacement of some commanders, as part of a renewed effort to halt the bloodshed.

These adjustments, expected to be implemented in the coming days, are aimed at drastically reducing the violence.

General Oluyede is also expected to visit affected communities, offer reassurance to residents, and personally lead operations in critical areas before returning to Abuja.

His proactive approach echoes a similar move made in Borno State recently, which significantly weakened insurgent activity. Thereafter, he led counter-terror operations in person.

The situation in Benue continues to draw national concern.

In the latest wave of attacks, at least 43 people were killed on Sunday across villages in Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas.

This came just a week after a priest, Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongo, was shot by militia members and 42 others were killed, including a mobile police officer, in coordinated raids on four villages in Gwer West.