The Commander of the 401 Special Forces Brigade, Makurdi, Brig.-Gen. K.O. Bukoye, has said the Benue security situation has improved significantly in recent years due to sustained military operations and collaboration with other security agencies.
Bukoye made the statement during an interview with journalists, where he reviewed security developments across the state and highlighted efforts to restore peace in affected communities.
According to the brigade commander, Benue State has faced several security challenges, including farmers-herders clashes, banditry, kidnapping, cultism, communal violence, and local militia activities.
However, he said troops have recorded notable successes in reducing the intensity of these threats since he assumed command. Bukoye explained that security challenges differ across local government areas, requiring tailored operational approaches.
He identified Katsina-Ala, Logo, Ukum, and Kwande as areas affected mainly by local militia activities. He also noted that communities in Otukpo and Apa continue to experience criminal activities such as armed robbery.
Meanwhile, he said farmers-herders conflicts remain a major concern in parts of Guma and Makurdi Local Government Areas.
The commander also addressed reports surrounding the recent Yelwata crisis. He described some casualty figures circulated on social media and other platforms as exaggerated.
According to him, available information indicates that the actual number of casualties was lower than widely reported figures. Bukoye said inaccurate reports contributed to negative public reactions and misconceptions about the incident.
The military commander revealed that security agencies are combining military operations with non-kinetic approaches aimed at addressing the root causes of conflict.
He said the brigade has organized several stakeholder meetings involving traditional rulers, Fulani leaders, community representatives, and other critical stakeholders.
According to him, these engagements seek to build trust, promote dialogue, and encourage peaceful coexistence among communities.
Bukoye added that participants often agree on peaceful solutions during discussions. However, some parties later violate those agreements, which undermines the peace process.
The commander expressed concern over the proliferation of illegal arms in some communities. He noted that the availability of weapons continues to fuel violence and criminal activities across parts of the state.
Bukoye stressed that security agencies remain committed to identifying and dismantling criminal networks responsible for attacks and disturbances.
The brigade commander identified poor intelligence sharing as one of the major obstacles facing security operations.
According to him, some residents fail to report suspicious activities, while others protect criminal elements within their communities. He said this situation makes it difficult for security agencies to identify, isolate, and arrest suspects. Bukoye explained that criminals often exploit community protection to regroup and continue their activities.
He emphasized that security agencies depend heavily on credible information from local residents to prevent attacks and improve operational effectiveness.
Bukoye urged community leaders, youth groups, and residents to work closely with security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious movements and activities.
He assured residents that any information shared would be treated with confidentiality. The commander maintained that lasting peace cannot be achieved through military action alone. Instead, he said sustained peace requires cooperation between communities, traditional institutions, and security agencies.
Brig.-Gen. Bukoye reaffirmed the commitment of the 401 Special Forces Brigade to protecting lives and property across Benue State. He expressed optimism that continued military pressure, community support, and genuine commitment to peaceful coexistence would help the state overcome its security challenges.
The commander called on residents to reject criminality and actively support efforts to identify those responsible for violence and insecurity.
As security agencies continue operations across Benue State, military authorities say public cooperation remains a critical factor in sustaining recent gains. While challenges persist in some areas, the brigade believes stronger intelligence sharing and community engagement will help secure lasting peace and stability across the state.
