Benue Violence: Army Vows to Hunt Down Perpetrators of Deadly Attacks

Amid a wave of deadly attacks ravaging parts of Benue State, the Nigerian military has pledged swift action against those behind the recent killings. On Saturday, June 14, 2025, Major General Moses Gara, Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), arrived in the affected areas to address the unfolding crisis.

General Gara visited Yelwata Village, Tse-Mtwenem, Daudu, and Iye Village—all recently hit by violent raids.

According to a release by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer for the OPWS Headquarters, the visit formed part of a strategic military initiative aimed at quelling rising tension in the region.

While addressing local monarchs, village elders, and residents, General Gara condemned the brutal attacks as “inhuman and intolerable,” assuring locals that the military will relentlessly pursue those responsible.

“I’m not here only as a military leader, but as a fellow citizen who understands the gravity of your loss,” he said. “The Nigerian security forces are firmly behind you. We are not here for show—we are here to take action. These criminals will be hunted down and brought to justice.”

He also offered heartfelt condolences to grieving families and applauded the unwavering commitment of troops enduring tough terrains to safeguard communities.

Gara emphasized that OPWS has intensified its intelligence-gathering efforts and deployed additional personnel to vulnerable zones to forestall further violence.

However, he highlighted that military force alone won’t resolve the conflict and called for active collaboration from the locals.

He urged residents to provide accurate and timely intelligence to help security forces preempt further attacks and ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended.

In a community response, Mr. Iorkyaa Emmanuel expressed appreciation for the military’s intervention and described General Gara’s presence as a ray of hope for villagers living in constant dread.

He affirmed the community’s readiness to cooperate fully with security forces and appealed for a sustained military presence, particularly in isolated areas that often bear the brunt of such attacks.