The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted claims that General Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff (CDS), blamed victims of the recent attacks in Benue state during a press briefing.
On June 14, armed assailants stormed Yelwata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area, killing over 100 people. In a subsequent media address, Gen. Musa said troops had received misleading intelligence from some locals prior to the attack. He also alleged that certain residents provided shelter, food, and even “women” to the attackers.
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The remarks drew heavy criticism from rights groups and members of the public, who accused the defence chief of victim-blaming.
However, in a statement issued on Monday, Tukur Gusau, director of defence information, said the general’s comments had been “taken out of context” and were unfairly portrayed by some advocacy groups, particularly the National Coalition Against Mass Killings and Impunity.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a news article published in a national daily, which misrepresents recent remarks made by the CDS, Gen. Musa, regarding the tragic Yelwata incident,” Gusau said.
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“We categorically state that the interpretation and portrayal of the CDS’s comments are both misleading and taken out of context. At no point did the CDS intend to blame victims or justify the heinous acts perpetrated by criminal elements in Benue or elsewhere.”
Gusau explained that Gen. Musa’s remarks were intended to highlight the importance of vigilance and local collaboration in countering insecurity, not to apportion blame. He said the general’s appeal was made in good faith, within the context of strengthening community engagement with security agencies.
“It is regrettable that some groups have chosen to distort the CDS’s remarks, especially on such a sensitive matter as national security,” the statement read.
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Gusau emphasised that Gen. Musa remains committed to the protection of all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, or gender. He also called on advocacy groups to verify facts before issuing statements capable of inflaming public sentiment.
The DHQ reaffirmed its dedication to restoring peace in troubled areas and urged residents to continue cooperating with security operatives in the fight against insurgency and violent crime.
