The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Tuesday, relocated to Benue State in a decisive move aimed at curbing the incessant killings of innocent civilians by suspected herders and militia groups.

A source at the Army Headquarters in Abuja informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the COAS was deeply concerned about the continued loss of lives and displacement of residents in various communities across the state.

Lt.-Gen. Oluyede is accompanied by Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) and other senior military officials for a comprehensive assessment of the security situation. The Army Chief is also expected to hold high-level strategic meetings with operational and unit commanders to review ongoing operations and map out new strategies to end the violence.

In a major boost to military presence, the COAS has reportedly ordered the deployment of additional troops and logistics to the troubled areas to track and dismantle the armed groups behind the attacks.

“While in Benue, the COAS will visit frontline troops and operational bases, interact with personnel to boost their morale, and personally lead key operations in the field,” the source said.

Oluyede is also scheduled to visit affected communities to reassure residents of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

Benue State has witnessed a surge in deadly attacks by suspected herders and armed groups in recent weeks, sparking widespread concern.

Notable incidents include:

  • The May 24 attack on Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongo, who was ambushed along the Makurdi–Naka Road. Though left for dead, he survived the assault.
  • A broad daylight attack on Agan Community in Makurdi on May 29, which claimed multiple lives.
  • Coordinated attacks on June 1 on Naka, the Gwer West Local Government headquarters, and Edikwu-Ankpali community in Apa LGA, resulting in several fatalities.
  • The assault on Tse-Antswam in Naka, where 17 people were killed and many others declared missing or displaced.
  • Further violence in Edikwu and Ankpali communities, which left 16 dead and scores unaccounted for.

The Army Chief’s visit and operational review are expected to lead to a recalibration of security efforts and the restoration of peace in the affected communities.

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