The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has ordered the immediate arrest of anyone in possession of illegal arms in Benue State. He also warned that anyone who attacks security personnel with such illegal arms would be neutralised.
Gen. Musa issued the directive Thursday after holding a closed-door meeting with their Royal Majesties, the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, the Och’Idoma, John Odogbo and other traditional rulers in the state.
He emphasised the sincerity of the federal government and military leadership in resolving the security challenges confronting Benue State. He recalled previous consultations, including the recent visit by President Bola Tinubu, as part of ongoing efforts to secure the state and ensure that the displaced citizens return to their communities.
He said, “We have a challenge in Benue State, and I believe working together, we will find a solution. When we sit down and talk sincerely, bringing out all that is affecting us, we will be able to find the solution.”
Gen. Musa expressed appreciation to the Tor Tiv and Och’Idoma for their candid contributions and called for continued collaboration between the communities and security agencies. He urged the royal fathers to regard the military as partners and “sons” working towards peace in a region with shared history and struggles.
The CDS warned that the military would not condone illegal arms possession or criminal activities, regardless of the perpetrators’ identity or affiliation “and anyone bearing arms illegally will be arrested. If he threatens security forces, he will be neutralised. That is the mandate.”
He assured that the military was committed to replicating peace-building successes recorded in other troubled parts of the country and cautioned military personnel against complacency and reminded them of their constitutional duty to protect lives, their colleagues, and host communities.
Gen. Musa also disclosed that the outcome of the meeting would be relayed to the President for further action.
