Mangu (Plateau), Jan. 20, 2027 (NAN) Maj.-Gen. Folunsho Oyinlola, the Commander Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (JTF-OPEP) has met with some critical stakeholders over the rising security challenges in Plateau.
Oyinlola, who doubles as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba, near Jos, met with stakeholders from Mangu Local Government Area (LGA) on Thursday in Jos.
Oyinlola, who reiterated his commitment towards ensuring lasting peace in all parts of Plateau, described the meeting as timely.
The commander decried the spate of killings in mining sites and influx of cattle into farming communities, and urged the stakeholders to close ranks towards a peaceful state.
“While we celebrate the progress made so far in Mangu LGA, we must face the unfolding realities in this locality.
“I must express the concerns of security agencies about recent developments in parts of the state; in particular, there is the growing unease about the attack of miners at mining sites as well as the influx of large numbers of cattle into farming communities.
“While the movement of livestock in Mangu and indeed Plateau is not unusual, the scale and timings of this influx raises legitimate security concerns.
“Unfortunately, this development has already resulted in adverse outcomes including farm destructions, isolated attacks and attacks on livestock,” he said.
Oyinlola called on residents of Mangu to unite to ensure that the early warnings didn’t slide into avoidable conflicts.
He said that the meeting aimed at providing sustainable solutions towards lasting peace in the locality and Plateau in general.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting had in attendance traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women groups, among others.(NAN)
