By Barth Ikiebe
Nigeria’s Chief Of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has ordered the deployment of additional troops to Benue state over the incessant killings of villagers by suspected armed herders and militia group.
The Army Chief, being accompanied by his Principal Staff Officers (PSOs), and other top officers at the Army Headquarters, moved on Tuesday to Makurdi, the Benue State Capital, to assess the deteriorating security situation in the State.
His visit comes in response to the wave of violent attacks by suspected armed herders and militias, which have left scores dead, several injured or maimed, and countless homes and farmlands destroyed.
At least 48 farmers had been killed on Sunday by suspected armed herders, who invaded communities in Gwer-West and Apa local government areas of Benue State. The attack came a week after 40 people, including a police officer and pregnant women were killed in Gwer West LGA.
While in Benue State, the COAS, is expected to hold strategic meetings with all operational and unit commanders to brainstorm on the way forward, as well as review the ongoing operations.
Oluyede is also expected to visit troops locations and operational bases in the state to interact with troops and boost their morale and fighting spirit.
General Oluyede, while in the state will personably lead troops in the operation in the battle front. He is expected to spend some days in the state before relocating back to Abuja.
