Benue Killings: Leaked DSS Memo Shows Nigerian Military Was Alerted Weeks Before Herdsmen Attack

Nigeria’s secret police, the Department of State Services (DSS), had warned of an imminent attack on communities in Benue and Nasarawa states before the 13 June violence that killed over 200 people, including farmers and internally displaced persons (IDPs).

A leaked DSS memo dated 13 May and addressed to Moses Gara, commander of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), detailed intelligence on suspected Fulani militias planning assaults on several settlements.

Among those listed was Yelewata in Guma LGA, Benue State — one of the communities later attacked.

The memo stated: “Reports indicate that they have been holding a series of meetings in Akpanaja, Rukuhi and Andori settlements in Doma LGA and have stationed their men at designated forests for a coordinated offensive against the Tiv communities.”

It continued: “The militias are currently hibernating at Amako and Igbabo forest located between Mkoma and Doka villages in Doma LGA and Ikom forest, located few kilometers away from Yelwata-Udei-Ukohol and Kadarko Railway in Keana LGA and are planning to attack Agatu, Gwer West/Gwer East/part of Makurdi LGA, as well as Guma and Loko Communities, all in Benue State.”

According to The Cable, the DSS noted that the planned attacks were to avenge the alleged seizure of cows by the state government. 

Communities identified as potential targets included Mararaba, Jangargari, Wurgi, Gidan Antonny, Akon, Usende, Gaar, Vandikya, Chiata, Dooga, Gidan Baban Yara, Apelle, Pantaki, Kaambe and the Stadium area.

The memo also warned of coordinated attacks on Tiv settlements and border communities between Nasarawa and Benue states by “suspected armed Fulani mercenaries.”

In May, OPWS commander Moses Gara held a “high-level meeting” in Makurdi with leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders’ Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) over the spate of violence in the state.

Lawal Osabo, acting assistant director of army public relations, 401 Special Forces Brigade/Sector 1 OPWS, said on 28 May that the meeting involved security agencies and local government authorities and addressed persistent threats like retaliatory attacks, kidnappings, and cattle rustling.