The Nigerian Army has pledged to bring to justice those responsible for the recent wave of killings in Benue, Plateau, and other troubled regions of the country, according to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.
Speaking at the Nigerian Army Headquarters' Second Quarter 2025 Media Chat in Akure on Saturday, Oluyede emphasized the military's commitment to restoring peace, particularly in the North-Central region where violence has escalated in recent months.
"The President has given clear directives. We are fully deployed and confronting these security threats head-on," said Oluyede, who was represented by Maj. Gen. Obinna Onubogu, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan.
Enhanced Security Measures for Benue
The COAS highlighted that Benue State, which has witnessed some of the most brutal attacks, will see strengthened security arrangements in the coming weeks.
"In Benue especially, expect more elaborate and strategic security arrangements in the coming weeks aimed at ending the violence," he assured.
The media chat, themed 'Military–Media Collaboration: Panacea for Enhanced National Security and Development,' provided a platform for the army to address concerns about the rising insecurity in parts of the country.
Call for Community Support
Oluyede emphasized the critical role of community leaders and residents in supporting military operations through timely intelligence sharing. He noted that delayed or inaccurate intelligence often hampers the army's response to security threats.
"Nigeria is vast, and the army isn't as large in numbers as people may assume. We depend heavily on the support of the people. Unfortunately, in some cases, the intelligence we get is either late or inaccurate, which hampers our operations. That must change if we're to win this fight together," the COAS explained.
Media Responsibility in Security Reporting
The army chief also called on journalists to verify their reports before publication, particularly in an era dominated by misinformation on social media platforms.
"The media must play its part in safeguarding national security. We urge reporters to reach out to military authorities to clarify facts before putting out stories. Sensationalism only worsens public anxiety and undermines national efforts," Oluyede cautioned.
The military's renewed commitment comes amid a series of violent incidents in the North-Central region, including attacks on wedding-bound travelers in Plateau State and the killing of a commander of the Nigerians Hunters and Forest Security Services in Benue State.
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