Over 300 Nigerian Army personnel have been deployed to Bashar Chiefdom in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State to confront rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling.
The deployment, carried out under Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), is part of renewed efforts to restore peace and stability in the troubled area.
The troops were led by the Sector 2 Commander, Colonel Olugbenga Osuntuyi, and arrived to a warm reception from traditional rulers, women, youths, students, and other residents.
Community members welcomed the soldiers with folk music and placards, expressing hope that the military presence would end persistent security threats.
In his remarks, the Magayakin Bashar, Alhaji Abubakar Yusuf, described the deployment as timely and long awaited.
“We know your work and the effort the Colonel has been making in this area. He has been requesting additional personnel for a long time, and this is the right time that the Chief of Army Staff has sent you directly to work with him so that peace can return to our domain,” he said.
The traditional ruler assured the troops of the community’s full cooperation in tackling criminal activities.
“Any criminal you come across, deal with him decisively. We are not biased. We are not supporting criminals here. Even as recently as yesterday, our people were kidnapped and one person was killed. We are very happy today because we have witnessed your arrival,” he added.
Also speaking, the Madakin of Bashar and Acting Rekna, Alhaji Ali Nuhu, urged residents to work honestly with the military.
“Since yesterday we have been expecting you. Seeing you today, we know that kaki no be leather. We will cooperate and support you for the sake of our land. If anyone is not sincere and is brought for questioning, we don’t know what discussion they will face,” he said.
He described Colonel Osuntuyi as a soldier of integrity and warned against sabotage or collaboration with criminals.
Speaking on behalf of the Member representing Wase Federal Constituency, Hon. Abubakar Muhammad Badu, a senior aide explained that the deployment followed legislative intervention.
“Today, we are happy to receive more support from the Nigerian Army. This intervention is a result of the motion raised by the Right Honourable Ahmed Idris Majid on banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling in this area,” he said.
He disclosed that the lawmaker supported the establishment of the Bashar military base with motorcycles, mattresses, food items, and other logistics.
Badu also revealed that two boreholes were drilled to provide water for the troops, assuring that support would be sustained.
During the visit, Colonel Osuntuyi inspected the new military base and facilities provided for the soldiers.
Residents expressed optimism that the deployment would restore peace and enhance security across Bashar Chiefdom and neighbouring communities.
