26/06/2025
CDS Engages Tor Tiv, Och’Idoma in Renewed Peace Drive in Benue
Makurdi, June 26, 2025 —
In a continued effort to restore peace and stability in Benue State, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, on Thursday held a high-level peace dialogue with the paramount traditional rulers of the state — the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Professor James Ortese Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty John Odogbo.
The closed-door session, which took place at the Old Banquet Hall of the Benue State Government House in Makurdi, marks the second in a series of strategic engagements focused on tackling the state’s lingering security crises — particularly farmer-herder conflicts and banditry, which have displaced thousands of residents.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, General Musa reaffirmed the federal government’s and military’s dedication to securing lives and property in the state. He referenced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit as a testament to the federal commitment to resolving the crisis.
“Benue State is facing serious security challenges,” the CDS said. “But I strongly believe that through honest dialogue and collaboration, we can find lasting solutions. When we come together, speak truthfully, and confront the issues head-on, peace becomes achievable.”
He commended the royal fathers for their frank contributions and called on traditional institutions to view the military not as outsiders, but as allies and sons working toward a common goal — a peaceful Benue.
In their responses, the monarchs pledged continued support. The Tor Tiv acknowledged that some local elements — including cattle rustlers — have played a role in escalating the crisis. He assured the CDS that traditional leaders would take greater responsibility in sensitizing their communities and curbing such activities.
The Och’Idoma echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of separating law-abiding Fulani residents from those engaged in violence and criminality. “We are not saying all Fulani should leave,” he said. “Our plea is directed only at the armed ones who kill, r**e, and destroy our farms. They are the ones we want out.”
General Musa warned against individuals or groups attempting to exploit the conflict for political or economic gain. He emphasized that the military would no longer tolerate any form of criminality. “Anyone illegally bearing arms will be arrested. And if they pose a threat to security forces, they will be neutralized,” he stated.
On the recent violence in Yelwata, the CDS confirmed that arrests have been made and that those responsible will face justice. He noted that the area is now under control, with reinforcements deployed to pave the way for displaced persons to safely return home.
General Musa also addressed concerns over Cameroonian refugees allegedly contributing to local unrest, assuring that measures are being taken to facilitate their safe repatriation.
“Our success will not be measured by speeches, but by actions — when IDPs leave the camps and return to their homes. That is our mission, and we are fully committed to it,” he declared.
The meeting concluded with renewed pledges of collaboration, mutual understanding, and concrete action — a hopeful move toward healing the wounds of years of violence and displacement in Benue State.
