Yelwata Massacre: Defence Headquarters Says Allegations of Internal Sabotage in Military Unfounded
…as CDS Ends Two-Day Assessments Visit to Benue
Abuja (Core Reporters) The Defence Headquarters on Tuesday dismissed claims that they are internal sabotage within the Nigerian military which led to the Yelwata massacre over the weekend., describing the claims as unfounded.
This was contained in a statement issued on by the Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau on Tuesday and which was made available to Core Reporters onTuesday, June 17, 2025.
The statement stated that the violence in Yelwata is part of a broader pattern of intercommunal clashes in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, primarily between farmers and herders. These conflicts are driven by longstanding disputes over land and grazing rights, ethnic tensions, and competition for resources. While the military has been deployed to maintain peace, the root causes of the violence lie in complex socio-economic and political factors.
The statement reads in parts, “The attention of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has been drawn to recent claims suggesting that internal sabotage within the Nigerian military contributed to the tragic events in Yelwata, Benue State, are unfounded and not supported by credible evidence.
“The Nigerian military has consistently denied any involvement in the massacre. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has publicly stated that the military was not responsible for the killings in Yelwata. Furthermore, the Nigerian Military has emphasized its commitment to protecting civilians and upholding the rule of law.
“ There is no credible evidence to substantiate claims of internal sabotage within the military related to the Yelwata incident. Investigations by independent bodies, including human rights organizations, have not found any links between the military and the perpetrators of the massacre. The violence in Yelwata is part of a broader pattern of intercommunal clashes in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, primarily between farmers and herders. These conflicts are driven by longstanding disputes over land and grazing rights, ethnic tensions, and competition for resources. While the military has been deployed to maintain peace, the root causes of the violence lie in complex socio-economic and political factors.
“ Attributing the Yelwata massacre to internal sabotage within the Nigerian military is misleading and detracts from the real issues at play. It is essential to focus on addressing the underlying causes of intercommunal violence and to support efforts aimed at fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable peace in the affected regions,” the statement said.
Core Reporters report that the CDS called for a holistic approach and the need for the communities and the security agencies to work closer to address the issue. He also call on the communities not to hide criminals and also assure them the military and other security agencies are there to protect lives and properties of law abiding citizens.
In the same vein, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has concluded a two day assessment visit to Benue state. He was received by the Commander Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General MK Gara and other Operational commanders in the North Central. The CDS was taken round Yelwata which was recently attacked. The Defence Chief alongside the Governor of Benue State, Rev Father Hyacinth Alia and the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun had an interactive session with the Community, traditional and religious leaders.
In his remarks, General Musa described the attack/killings as uncalled for and senseless. He commiserate with the community over the unfortunate incident that led to the lost of lives and properties. The CDS urged the Community to work with the military and other security agencies to eliminate the criminal elements. As he reiterates that “we must all agree this must stop” he urged the people to make determination to stop the madness.
Also in his remark, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, assured the Community of his commitment of not only to relentlessly pursue the criminal elements and bring them to justice, but to also ensure that lasting peace returns to Benue State. He further assures that the Security agencies will not sleep nor rest until perpetrators are brought to book.
The Governor of Benue State, Rev Father Hyacinth Alia expressed high concern about the tragic and unnecessary blood bath that has befallen his people. He expressed confidence in the prompt intervention and presence of the security agencies ashe said, it will rekindle the hope to continuous living.
The CDS also held a town hall meeting with stakeholders from all the three geopolitical zones of Benue State which includes first class traditional rulers, Chiefs, Youth Leaders and key personalities in the State. He appealed to the stakeholders to work with members of the Armed Forces as a united front to bridge trust and restore confidence in the system.
During the visit the CDS also received Operational briefing from the Operational commanders under Whirl Stroke at Headquarters, 401 Special Forces Brigade. He directed the commanders to ensure they protect lives and properties of the law-abiding citizens and work with the local communities to find lasting solution to these problems.
