The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has relocated from Abuja to Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, following continuous attacks on villages by armed groups and suspected herders.
These attacks, which have occurred frequently in recent weeks, have left many people dead, injured, or homeless as houses continue to be destroyed.
Oluyede’s relocation to Benue happened on Tuesday morning, and he was joined by his Principal Staff Officer and other top army officials.
His visit is aimed at getting a better understanding of the crisis by being on the ground.
He also plans to lead efforts to stop the violence that has disrupted the lives of many families across the state.
During his stay in Benue, the army chief is expected to meet with commanders and officers already working in the area.
These meetings will focus on how to improve the current operations and bring the killings to an end.
There are also plans to review how the army is responding and make any needed changes, which may include assigning new commanders to certain units.
Troops already deployed in Benue will be visited by the army chief at their various operational bases.
He is expected to speak with them directly to boost their spirit and assure them of leadership support as they continue their duties.
He also plans to visit some of the villages that have been attacked to meet with the residents and let them know that efforts are being made to protect them.
Oluyede is unhappy with the way the attacks have continued without a break, and he is prepared to take strong steps to stop the violence.
He may also lead the troops personally during some of the operations, showing his full involvement in the fight to bring back peace to the troubled areas.
The attacks have been especially brutal in recent days.
Last weekend alone, 43 people were killed in separate attacks across Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas.
Just days before that, a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr Solomon Atongo, was shot along the Makurdi-Naka road, while four communities in Gwer West were also attacked.
That assault left another 42 people dead, including a mobile police officer.
Many people in Benue have described these attacks as targeted killings, with the armed men using powerful weapons and machetes to invade villages, often at night.
The situation has caused fear and suffering among residents, most of whom now live in fear of the next strike.
The army chief is expected to spend several days in the state as he oversees efforts to end the attacks and restore calm.
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