The Nigerian Army has pledged to intensify operations against criminal hideouts in Plateau State, combining military action with community-focused initiatives to protect lives, properties, and livelihoods, particularly as the farming season begins.
The General Officer Commanding 3rd Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, made the announcement on Thursday during a strategic meeting with leaders from Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
He said Operation Enduring Peace would accelerate the clearance of criminal elements, maintain heightened patrols in flashpoints, and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies across the state.
Oyinlola also called on community stakeholders to support the military’s efforts, warning of emerging threats, including attacks on miners and an influx of cattle into farming areas.
“These are clear early warning signs that demand urgent, collective action.
“We cannot allow Barkin Ladi to relapse into avoidable conflict, especially now that the farming season is commencing, a period vital to the livelihoods of countless families,” he said.
To promote peaceful farming and reduce tensions, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed the distribution of fertilisers to farmers and herders as part of non-kinetic measures, the GOC said.
He also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for deploying an elite Special Forces unit to reinforce ongoing operations.
The army chief urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community heads to strengthen conflict resolution mechanisms, educate youths against provocative actions, and develop a community-driven code of conduct.
He appealed to residents to report suspicious activities promptly, stressing that troops are deployed to protect all law-abiding citizens, regardless of ethnicity or religion.
“Our loyalty is to the Constitution and the collective safety of Nigerians.
“Security is a shared responsibility. We depend on timely and credible intelligence from communities to act decisively against criminal elements,” he added.
(Punch)
