The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, never blamed the victims of the recent Benue killings as being represented in sections of the media.
This is contained in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Gusau said that the CDS, instead, highlighted the complexities of conflict zones and the need for communities to be vigilant and cooperative with security agencies.
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This clarification comes after some media reports misrepresented General Musa's comments, suggesting that he blamed the victims for the attacks.
Gusau emphasised that the CDS's remarks were aimed at encouraging communities to work with security agencies to prevent such attacks and promote peace and stability in the region.
"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.
"We categorically state that the interpretation and portrayal of the CDS's comments by the National Coalition Against Mass Killings and Impunity (NCAMKI), as reported, 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 State or elsewhere.
"The CDS's statement was aimed at drawing attention to the complex realities and challenges faced in conflict zones, particularly the tactics used by insurgent and criminal groups to infiltrate communities and exploit vulnerabilities.
"His comments were made in good faith, within the broader context of encouraging communities to be vigilant, cooperative with security agencies, and united against those who seek to destroy peace and order," he said.
Gusau said it was regrettable that advocacy groups would twist the narrative and attempt to politicise an issue as sensitive as national security.
According to him, it is on record that General Musa has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to protecting all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender.
He said the CDS had continued to work tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens, promote civil-military cooperation, and uphold the values of professionalism, compassion, and integrity in military operations.
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"We reject the insinuation that the CDS's remarks were "reckless, insensitive or provocative.
"Such a claim is not only untrue but also undermines the efforts of the armed forces in managing highly volatile and emotionally charged security situations across the country.
"While we acknowledge the right of citizens and groups to express concerns, we urge stakeholders to exercise restraint, verify facts, and engage constructively, rather than issuing inflammatory statements that may exacerbate tensions or diminish public trust in our institutions.
"The Defence Headquarters remains committed to working with all communities, civil society organisations, and government partners to ensure justice, peace, and accountability prevail across Nigeria," he added. (NAN)
