Abuja- June 18, 2025 The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has categorically denied allegations of internal sabotage within the Nigerian military leading to the tragic events in Yelwata, Benue State.
Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, stated this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.
Brig. Gen. Gusau described the claims as “unfounded and not supported by credible evidence.”
Gusau emphasized the military’s commitment to protecting civilians and upholding the rule of law.
“There is no credible evidence to substantiate claims of internal sabotage within the military related to the Yelwata incident,” he said, adding that investigations by independent bodies, including human rights organizations, have not found any links between the military and the perpetrators of the massacre.
The DHQ attributed the violence to intercommunal clashes driven by longstanding disputes over land and grazing rights, ethnic tensions, and competition for resources.
Gusau urged focus on addressing underlying causes and supporting dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable peace efforts.
Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa called for a holistic approach, urging communities and security agencies to work together to address the issue.
“The military and other security agencies are there to protect lives and properties of law-abiding citizens,” Gusau added.
The DHQ reassured its commitment to protecting civilians and maintaining peace in the region.