CDS Did Not Blame Victims of Benue Killings – Defence Headquarters Clarifies

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, did not blame victims of the recent killings in Benue State, contrary to claims circulating in some media reports.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, described the media interpretations of Gen. Musa’s remarks as misleading and taken out of context.

“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a news article which misrepresents recent remarks made by the CDS regarding the tragic Yelwata incident,” Gusau said. “We categorically state that the interpretation by the National Coalition Against Mass Killings and Impunity (NCAMKI), as reported, is both inaccurate and misleading.”

According to Gusau, Gen. Musa’s comments were intended to underscore the complex dynamics in conflict zones and the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with security agencies—not to shift blame onto the victims.

“At no point did the CDS intend to blame the victims or justify the heinous acts perpetrated by criminal elements in Benue or any other state,” he added.

The DHQ expressed concern over what it termed an attempt to politicize a highly sensitive national security issue. Gusau emphasized that the CDS has consistently shown commitment to protecting all Nigerians and has promoted peace, professionalism, and civil-military cooperation.

“We reject the insinuation that the CDS’s remarks were reckless, insensitive, or provocative,” he said. “Such claims undermine the efforts of the armed forces in managing volatile and emotionally charged security situations.”

Gusau urged stakeholders, civil society groups, and the media to exercise restraint, verify facts, and contribute constructively to national discourse rather than inflame public sentiment.

“The Defence Headquarters remains committed to working with all communities and partners to uphold justice, peace, and national security,” he concluded.