The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly refuted claims that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, made insensitive remarks regarding the tragic killings in Yelwata, Benue State, describing such interpretations as a deliberate misrepresentation.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly refuted claims that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, made insensitive remarks regarding the tragic killings in Yelwata, Benue State, describing such interpretations as a deliberate misrepresentation.
In a statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the military high command said its attention was drawn to a publication by a national daily quoting the National Coalition Against Mass Killings and Impunity (NCAMKI), which accused the CDS of making comments that allegedly blamed the victims of the Yelwata incident.
“We categorically state that the interpretation and portrayal of the CDS’s comments by the National Coalition Against Mass Killings and Impunity (NCAMKI), as reported, are both misleading and taken out of context,” the statement read. “At no point did the CDS intend to blame victims or justify the heinous acts perpetrated by criminal elements in Benue State or elsewhere.”
The DHQ emphasized that General Musa’s comments were made in good faith and intended to shed light on the complex challenges faced in conflict zones, particularly how insurgents and criminal groups often infiltrate communities and exploit their vulnerabilities.
“His comments were made within the broader context of encouraging communities to be vigilant, cooperative with security agencies, and united against those who seek to destroy peace and order,” Gusau explained.
The military expressed regret that advocacy groups would “twist the narrative and attempt to politicize an issue as sensitive as national security,” adding that such actions undermine ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation.
“It is on record that General Musa has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to protecting all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender,” the statement added. “He has worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens, promote civil-military cooperation, and uphold the values of professionalism, compassion, and integrity in military operations.”
The DHQ firmly rejected NCAMKI’s description of the CDS’s remarks as “reckless, insensitive or provocative,” asserting that such characterizations are not only untrue but also damaging to public trust in the armed forces.
“While we acknowledge the right of citizens and groups to express concerns, we urge stakeholders to exercise restraint, verify facts, and engage constructively, rather than issuing inflammatory statements that may exacerbate tensions or diminish public trust in our institutions,” the statement said.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to justice, peace, and accountability across the country, and called for continued cooperation from communities, civil society organisations, and government stakeholders.
General Musa has been at the forefront of military reforms and civil-military engagements aimed at fostering trust and enhancing operational effectiveness in combating insecurity nationwide.