Benue Crisis: CDS Musa Dismisses ‘Farmers-Herders Clash’ Narrative, Cites Real Causes

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has stated that the commonly used term “farmers-herders clash” is misleading. According to him, the real situation involves animals encroaching on farms, not an actual conflict between the two groups.

While speaking to journalists on Tuesday, the Defence Chief explained that the persistent violence in Benue State and similar regions stems from three core issues, rather than the supposed clash.

He identified the first cause as land ownership disputes, especially involving indigenes and non-indigenes, which he described as a political problem requiring political solutions.

The second issue, according to General Musa, is the movement of livestock. He stressed that using the term “clash” implies two active parties, but in reality, the conflict starts when livestock enters farmland, leading to destruction.

“A farm is static,” he said, “and when an animal enters it, it’s not a clash—it’s intrusion.”

He argued that if animals stop roaming, most of the current violence would disappear. Thus, he urged the government to intervene by regulating animal movement to reduce these incidents.

The third concern is animal rustling. General Musa explained that roaming livestock are more prone to being stolen, which further escalates violence in affected communities. Controlling rustling and restricting movement, he said, could significantly reduce the crisis.

“Many of these issues are beyond military intervention. They require political will and comprehensive governance,” he added.

The Defence Chief emphasized that the military’s role is limited to protecting people from attacks, but lasting peace can only be achieved through political engagement and land policy reforms.

Meanwhile, LMSINT MEDIA reports that more than 200 individuals were burned alive during a recent herdsmen attack in Yelwata, a village in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The tragedy has sparked widespread condemnation across Nigeria and international communities.