DHQ Revelation a Clarion Call for Self-Defense – Niger APC Chieftain Vatsa

Niger State APC chieftain and former Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, has issued a fiery call for Nigerians to rise and defend themselves from what he described as an “economic invasion.”
He spoke against the backdrop of the bombshell revelation by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) that foreign herders are behind the ongoing mass killings in Plateau, Benue, and other parts of the country

In a strongly worded statement issued in Minna on Sunday, Vatsa said the military’s confirmation validates long-standing fears by Nigerians that the killings ravaging rural communities are being perpetrated by foreign mercenaries exploiting Nigeria’s porous borders and weak security architecture.

“This is no longer the time for complacency or waiting for government intervention. The Defence Headquarters has confirmed what many of us have been saying all along – that foreign elements are orchestrating these killings for economic gain. Nigerians must now stand up and defend themselves or risk being wiped out,” Vatsa declared.

Citing recent comments by Major-General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, who acknowledged that most attacks in Plateau and Benue are carried out by foreign herders, Vatsa said the statement should serve as a national wake-up call.

“These people are not here for peace. They come in through unguarded northern borders, collaborate with local criminals, and unleash terror. Their goal is ransom, cattle rustling, and economic exploitation. Innocent citizens are kidnapped, and their families are forced to sell everything to pay ransom. It’s an economic war, and we are the targets,” he said.

Vatsa, a former APC Publicity Secretary in Niger State, lambasted political leaders who dismiss calls for self-defense, accusing them of living in comfort while ordinary Nigerians die daily.

“It’s insulting for someone sitting under air-conditioning, surrounded by over 200 security personnel, to say the situation hasn’t reached the point where people should defend themselves. “If you step outside the cities into our villages, it’s a warzone. People are dying every day, and some leaders still act like it’s business as usual.”

He warned that the long-term consequences of inaction could be devastating not just for the governed but for the political elite themselves.

“Those who think they are insulated today will face this crisis tomorrow if they continue to ignore the suffering of the people. Nigerians are tired of empty press statements. What is needed now is action—bold, practical, and urgent action.”

Vatsa concluded by reiterating that Nigerians are now caught between the jaws of economic hardship and escalating insecurity.

“This is a double jeopardy. And desperate situations demand desperate responses. The people must be empowered to protect their lives, lands, and livelihoods,” he said.