Major General EF Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, has urged stakeholders in Plateau State to unite for sustained peace and security.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement with representatives from Bokkos Local Government Area, he emphasized that the future of communities is linked to collective responsibility.
Oyinlola underscored the need to build on past security achievements, especially as the 2025 farming season approaches. “Security is the bedrock of progress, and we must consolidate the successes recorded so far to guarantee a peaceful farming season,” he said, highlighting reduced clashes between farmers and herders due to past engagements.
While recognizing the power of collaboration, he reiterated that the military alone cannot ensure peace. “No single security agency can achieve lasting peace without the cooperation and commitment of the people,” Oyinlola added, calling on traditional leaders, youths, and women to actively collaborate with security agencies. He urged all parties to embrace dialogue and forgiveness for a peaceful farming season.
The Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, represented by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Istifanus Mwansat, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to peace and security. “The governor places a premium on security and peace-building processes,” Mwansat said, adding that deliberate efforts have been made to establish security structures to address challenges.
Mwansat also stressed that peace starts within communities. “You will assemble here until you agree and convince yourself that you want to live in peace,” he remarked. The government, he assured, is fully committed to supporting security agencies and ensuring justice for all, regardless of ethnicity or religion.
Dr. Julie Sanda, Director General of the Plateau Peacebuilding Agency, praised the ongoing stakeholder engagements for their positive impact on resolving community challenges. She emphasized the importance of addressing criminality without bias, saying, “Criminality resides in the heart of every criminal, regardless of their ethnic group or religion.” Sanda further noted that tackling issues like kidnapping and motorbike theft in Bokkos requires direct engagement with affected communities.
During the engagement, HRH Monday H. Adanchin, the District Head of Bokkos, raised concerns about uncontrolled cattle grazing leading to crop damage and attacks on locals. He called for stricter regulations on cattle movements to ensure peace. Ardo Tangul, Abubakar Isa, representing herders, commended the security agencies for recovering stolen cattle but noted that some cows remained missing. He praised the local government’s compensation system for both farmers and herders and urged for continued peaceful coexistence.
The Divisional Police Officer of Bokkos LGA, AA Gideon, highlighted the significant progress made by security agencies, emphasizing the cooperation between police, military, and local vigilantes in combating crime. He stressed that all criminals are treated equally, regardless of their background, and urged leaders to use their words carefully to promote peace. Gideon also commended community stakeholders for their cooperation and called for continued support to maintain security.
HRH Lawrence Ayizat, Acting Saf Ron, acknowledged the ongoing security challenges in Bokkos and neighboring areas. He urged for a stronger and more strategic approach to address insecurity and encouraged community leaders to spread the message of peace and security to their villages.
In his goodwill message, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, Executive Chairman of Bokkos LGA, expressed confidence in the leadership of the SDF commander and commended the professionalism of security personnel in maintaining peace. He stressed the need for stricter law enforcement, particularly concerning illegal mining, illicit drink consumption, and motorcycle registration, and urged local leaders to work closely with security officials to ensure community safety.
