By Uriel Ihotu
In a coordinated effort to bring relief and healing to victims of recent violent attacks by armed herders, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), and Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) conducted a medical outreach in Yelewata town, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
The outreach was led by the President of DEPOWA and wife of the Chief of Defence Staff, Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, who described the initiative as a show of solidarity and compassion to the grieving and displaced residents. She emphasized that while no form of aid can undo the pain and loss, the gesture was intended to help ease their suffering and show that they are not forgotten.
“This visit is not just about bringing medicine and food. It is about bringing love, comfort, and hope to a community that has been deeply wounded,” Mrs. Musa said.
Speaking on behalf of the Defence Headquarters, Chief of Defence Military and Civil Relations, Rear Admiral Ola Bankole, described the outreach as part of the military’s corporate social responsibility. He reassured the people of Yelewata of the military’s commitment to justice and urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence.
Over 30 medical personnel from BSUTH including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab technicians, and other healthcare workers—were deployed to offer free medical services during the outreach. The team treated various ailments and conducted health assessments for the displaced residents.
In addition to medical attention, relief materials such as rice, garri, clothing, toiletries, and essential medications were distributed to families affected by the attacks.
The Chief Medical Director of BSUTH, Dr. Terungwa Stephen Hwande, represented by Cynthia Orjime, conveyed the hospital’s condolences and reaffirmed their commitment to providing continuous support to communities affected by conflict.
“We understand the level of trauma these families are dealing with. Beyond the treatment of physical wounds, we want them to know that they are not alone on this path to recovery,” Orjime stated.
Community leaders, including Ortaar Ucha and Chief John Kpanchokor, expressed heartfelt gratitude to DEPOWA, DHQ, and BSUTH for reaching out to their town. They noted that the intervention brought not only medical care but also renewed hope to a people whose spirits had been dampened by tragedy.
“This outreach has not only provided relief but has shown us that we matter. It reminds us that we are not forgotten,” said Chief Kpanchokor.
The collaboration between DEPOWA, DHQ, and BSUTH underscores a growing commitment to addressing the humanitarian needs of conflict-impacted communities in Benue and beyond.
