Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, is facing criticism over his recent call for a community-led security approach to address the ongoing violence in Benue State. During a stakeholder engagement in Makurdi on Tuesday, he proposed recruiting and training trusted local youth as vigilantes to operate under military supervision.

The initiative, intended to strengthen grassroots security amid persistent attacks, has stirred debate. Supporters believe it could empower communities and reduce response times, while critics warn it may further militarize civilians and escalate tensions.

Benue State has been grappling with deadly conflicts, mostly involving suspected armed herders. As residents continue to demand lasting solutions, the debate over how best to protect vulnerable communities remains unresolved.