The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has ordered the immediate arrest of anybody in possession of illegal arms in Benue State.
He recently warned that anyone who attacks security personnel with such illegal arms would be thoroughly dealt with.
Speaking after holding a closed-door meeting with their Royal Majesties, the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, the Och’Idoma, John Odogbo and other traditional rulers in the state, Gen. Musa revealed that the federal government and military leadership are doing everything possible to end the insecurity crisis in Benue.
According to him, the previous consultations, including the latest visit by President Bola Tinubu to the affected state, are part of ongoing efforts to secure Benue and ensure that the displaced citizens return to their communities.
He stated that a united effort will provide a solution to the current challenges, as long as everyone involved is sincere.
“We have a challenge in Benue State, and I believe working together, we will find a solution. When we sit down and talk sincerely, bringing out all that is affecting us, we will be able to find the solution,” he said.
He further appreciated the Tor Tiv and Och’Idoma for their important contributions thus far, stressing that genuine partnership between the communities and security agencies will go a long way towards making Benue State once again.
He concluded by appealing to the royal fathers to view the military as partners working towards peace in a region with shared history and struggles.
“We are committed to ending the era where crimes go unpunished. There will be no sacred persons. Anyone involved in violence must face justice.
The true measure of our success is when IDPs leave the camps and return home. That is our goal, and we are working hard to achieve it,” he added.
