In a bold response to the wave of deadly attacks plaguing Benue State, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has relocated to the state capital, Makurdi, to oversee military operations and curb the ongoing violence perpetrated by suspected herdsmen and armed militias.

General Oluyede, who departed Abuja on Tuesday morning alongside his Principal Staff Officers and other top military officials, is in Benue for an on-the-ground assessment of the deteriorating security situation.

The state has witnessed near-daily assaults on villages, resulting in numerous deaths, injuries, and the displacement of residents. Homes have been burnt and entire communities forced into homelessness, sparking widespread fear and anger.

Military sources confirm that the COAS has ordered the immediate deployment of additional troops to the state to intensify operations against armed groups. “The army is prepared to give these criminal elements the battle of their lives,” a senior officer said.

While in the state, General Oluyede will hold strategic meetings with operational and unit commanders to review current strategies and identify new approaches to end the carnage. He is also expected to visit frontline troops, operational bases, and communities affected by the violence to boost morale and reassure citizens of the army’s commitment to their safety.

In a move that underscores the seriousness of the situation, General Oluyede is expected to personally lead troops in field operations during his stay in Benue.

His visit comes amid growing national concern over the security crisis in the state, which has left dozens dead in recent weeks. Residents and civil society groups have called for urgent government intervention to halt the bloodshed.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and stability in Benue and protecting the lives and property of law-abiding citizens.