Insecurity: Group Urges Army Chief to Strengthen Federal Impact in Benue

The Benue Good Governance Network (BGGN) has called on the federal government to reinforce its visible presence in Benue State. The group is advocating for an increase in military deployment, intensified intelligence-gathering missions, and ongoing community-based engagement efforts. These measures, it believes, are critical for eliminating criminal enclaves and rebuilding trust between local residents and military forces.

The BGGN also applauded the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his recent trip to Benue. During this visit, the army chief personally coordinated security operations focused on stabilizing conflict-prone communities in the state.

According to the group, the army chief’s intervention came at a crucial time and served as a significant morale booster for the people of Benue. Many have endured prolonged periods of violence, displacement, and what seemed like federal neglect.

In a statement released and signed by its Convener, Dr. Amase Paul, the BGGN commended General Oluyede’s direct involvement in assessing the crisis on ground, engaging frontline soldiers, and interacting with local stakeholders. This, they stated, sends a strong signal that the federal government is taking renewed action against terrorism and working to safeguard innocent lives.

According to LMSINT MEDIA, numerous rural communities in Benue have come under frequent assault by armed groups and insurgents. These attacks have resulted in massive casualties, loss of properties, and the displacement of countless families who now live in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps. In recent times, the wave of violence has escalated, leaving residents in a state of fear and abandonment.

However, the BGGN expressed optimism that the army chief’s strategic visit and oversight of troop operations could represent a major shift in the battle to reclaim these troubled areas.

“His decision to personally visit and coordinate actions at the flashpoints reflects not only bravery but a genuine commitment to peace. It restored a sense of hope to our people — something many have lacked for years. Our women now sleep without dread, and our youth feel acknowledged by the leadership,” Dr. Paul remarked.

He further explained that before the recent developments, the prevailing sentiment in Benue was one of despair, with many believing the state had been forsaken by federal authorities. But the presence and actions of General Oluyede, coupled with explicit presidential support, have shifted that outlook.

Dr. Paul urged the army chief not to treat the visit as a symbolic act, but rather as the foundation of an enduring and well-orchestrated strategy to eliminate terrorism in the region.

The BGGN also assured the military of unwavering support from Benue’s youth population. They emphasized that local intelligence, generational collaboration, and active civilian involvement will be crucial to achieving long-term stability.

“Our youths are prepared to play their part. We will educate, organise, and rally our people to align with the army’s efforts. This is our home, and we have a duty to protect it — not through violence, but through unity, lawful cooperation, and transparent partnership,” the group declared.

The network also noted that it had initiated grassroots mobilization across various affected local government areas to improve communication between youth leaders and military operatives.

“We believe that peace is not built by arms alone. It requires the goodwill of the people. While the army secures us, we must cultivate an environment where peace can flourish,” Dr. Paul added.

Finally, the group urged both the Army and the federal government to focus on the post-conflict phase. This includes rebuilding schools, healthcare centers, roads, and homes damaged by years of violence.

“Peace is not just the absence of war — it also involves healing and restoring the dignity of families who have suffered. We appeal to the Chief of Army Staff to collaborate with relevant development agencies so that military victories can be followed by relief, recovery, and comprehensive rebuilding,” the group concluded.