The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has unequivocally denied allegations of sabotage within the Nigerian military that may have influenced the devastating events in Yelwata, Benue State.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, issued a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, labelling the accusations as “unfounded and unsupported by credible evidence.” He reiterated the military’s commitment to safeguarding civilians and upholding the rule of law.
“There is no credible evidence to validate claims of internal sabotage within the military in relation to the Yelwata incident,” he remarked, adding that independent investigations, including those by human rights groups, have not uncovered any ties between military personnel and those responsible for the massacre.
The DHQ attributed the violence to intercommunal strife, driven by long-standing disputes over land and grazing rights, ethnic friction, and competition for resources.
Gusau urged a focus on resolving the underlying issues and fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable peace efforts. Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa called for a comprehensive strategy, encouraging cooperation between communities and security agencies to effectively address the situation.
“The military and other security agencies are dedicated to protecting the lives and properties of law-abiding citizens,” Gusau stated, reaffirming the DHQ’s commitment to civilian protection and regional peace.
