Senator Abbo Hails COAS’ Bold Move to Benue: A Game-Changer in Tackling Northern Nigeria’s Insecurity

By Emmanuel Kwada

Former Senator Ishaku Abbo, popularly known as SIA, has lauded the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his decisive action in relocating to Benue State to address the escalating insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

In a passionate statement, Abbo described the move as a “tremendous effort” and a “nice decision” that demonstrates the military’s commitment to restoring peace in the region.

The COAS relocated to Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, following a surge in deadly attacks by suspected herdsmen and armed militia groups that have claimed numerous lives and destroyed communities across the state.

This is the kind of leadership we need—action, not just words

Abbo, who represented Adamawa North Senatorial District until his removal by the Appeal Court in October 2023, praised Oluyede’s hands-on approach, calling it a critical step toward curbing the violence that has plagued rural areas.

“This is the kind of leadership we need—action, not just words,” Abbo said in a statement made available to TGNews on Tuesday. “The COAS’s relocation to Benue is a bold and commendable move that sends a strong message to those perpetrating violence. It shows he is ready to lead from the front and bring an end to the insecurity devastating our communities.”

The former senator, who has long advocated for stronger military presence in the North to combat insurgency, highlighted the strategic importance of Oluyede’s presence in Benue. He noted that the state has faced near-daily assaults, with villages burned and scores of civilians killed or displaced. Recent attacks in communities like Ijaha Ikobi, Katsinala, Edikwu-Ankpali, and Odugbo have intensified calls for urgent action.

The COAS’s relocation to Benue is a bold and commendable move that sends a strong message to those perpetrating violence. It shows he is ready to lead from the front and bring an end to the insecurity devastating our communities

Abbo emphasized that the COAS’s direct oversight could boost troop morale and enhance coordination to confront the attackers effectively.

Abbo’s commendation comes amid mixed reactions to Oluyede’s relocation. While some Nigerians have criticized the move as a publicity stunt, with social media posts questioning its effectiveness, others, including Senator Abba Moro of Benue South, have welcomed it as a timely intervention.

Abbo, however, dismissed skeptics, arguing that the COAS’s presence in Benue would deter further attacks and reassure residents. “This is not about optics; it’s about results. The COAS is showing he’s serious about protecting lives and property,” he said.

The former senator also referenced his own efforts to address insecurity, citing his 2021 push for a military brigade in Mubi to combat Boko Haram insurgents in Adamawa. “I’ve always said it’s not rocket science to end insecurity. It takes commitment and strategic action, exactly what General Oluyede is doing now,” Abbo stated.

Abbo urged residents to cooperate with the military and called on the federal government to sustain support for such initiatives. “This is a step in the right direction, but we need more resources and collaboration to win this war, ” he said.