In the face of fresh violence that has left several communities in Benue State shattered, the Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, stepped into the heart of the crisis on Saturday, June 14, 2025.
General Gara visited Yelwata Village, Tse-Mtwenem, Daudu, and Iye Village—areas recently rocked by brutal attacks.
According to a statement released by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of OPWS Headquarters, the visit was part of the military’s broader response to the escalating tension in the region.
During his meetings with traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents, General Gara called the recent attacks “barbaric and unacceptable,” and made it clear that the military would go after the perpetrators without hesitation.
“Today, I stand not just as a Commander, but as a fellow Nigerian who understands your pain and suffering. The Nigerian security establishment is with you. We are not here to observe; we are here to act. We will pursue the perpetrators of these heinous crimes and ensure they face justice,” he stated.
He also expressed deep condolences to families mourning their loved ones and praised the dedication of troops working tirelessly under harsh conditions to protect lives.
General Gara explained that OPWS has ramped up intelligence gathering and deployed more personnel to key flashpoints.
But he stressed that military action alone won’t solve the problem, as collaboration from locals is critical.
He urged residents to support security agencies with credible and timely information that could help prevent future attacks and bring criminals to justice.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Mr. Iorkyaa Emmanuel welcomed the military’s presence and described General Gara’s visit as a turning point for many villagers who have lived in fear.
He said the community is ready to support the military fully and called for a consistent security presence, especially in remote areas that are often the hardest hit.
