As violent attacks in Benue State claimed 56 lives over the weekend, retired General Theophilus Danjuma has once again urged citizens to rise in self-defense, describing the crisis as a “real war” against communities across Nigeria.
Speaking in Takum, Taraba State, during an appreciation event for his staff, the former Defence Minister and Chief of Army Staff lamented the worsening security situation in Benue, Plateau, Ondo, and other states.
His remarks came in response to fresh killings by suspected herdsmen, which have left dozens dead and displaced scores of residents.
“I once asked you to rise and defend yourselves. I am still repeating it today with more seriousness; rise and defend yourselves,” Danjuma said.
“The killers have obtained sophisticated arms; we don’t know where they got the arms. But you people should also seek to get it wherever they get the arms; you must defend yourselves against the killers,” he added.
“You should know that they are well armed to kill you and take over your land. Be ready for them as they are also humans like you.”
Danjuma maintained that unless communities are ready to defend themselves, no one would come to their rescue.
This marks the third time he has issued such a warning, reiterating concerns over what he called an ongoing genocide.
In attendance at the Takum event was Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, who praised Danjuma for his contributions to the state’s development.
“The state has benefitted immensely from Danjuma’s philanthropic gestures, particularly in the areas of health care services, roads infrastructure and economic empowerment and holistic development of the state,” Kefas said, also praying for continued strength and good health for the retired general.
Meanwhile, Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia confirmed the updated casualty figures during his assessment tour of attacked communities.
He revealed that 27 people were killed in Logo Local Government Area and another 28 in Ukum LGA.
“Since these attacks started, we have recovered corpses. As of yesterday (Friday), we received some, and today (Saturday), the tally rose to 27 in Logo. In Ukum, security operatives have recovered over 28 corpses,” Alia reported.
He added that many families had already buried their relatives with the support of security personnel.
“Some families requested immediate burial for their relatives, and the security personnel provided them with cover to do so,” the governor explained.
Governor Alia described the situation as dire, stating, “There is no room for anyone to sleep with their two eyes closed. This is real war. We know our enemies. This is the only state that we have. I mourn with you at this very pathetic and sad moment in your lives.”
He also appealed to the federal government for urgent intervention, while assuring residents that his administration would handle the burial and medical costs of affected victims.
Tensions remain high in other parts of the country as well. In Kwara State, residents of Kaiama and Baruten LGAs are on edge following reports that a new terrorist group, “Mahmuda,” has resumed attacks, involving kidnappings and killings.
