GOC 3 Division Calls For Peaceful Co-existence, Meets With Stakeholders and Community Leaders In Plateau State

GOC 3 Division Calls For Peaceful Co-existence, Meets With Stakeholders and Community Leaders In Plateau State

In a bid to foster lasting peace and quell the persistent inter-ethnic conflicts in Plateau State, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, convened crucial meetings with community leaders and stakeholders. This initiative, which emphasizes dialogue and collaboration, aims to address recent security breaches and promote harmony among the diverse communities in the region.

On April 23, 2025, Major General Oyinlola held significant discussions with leaders from the Irigwe Chiefdom, focusing on the recent tragic events that disrupted peace in the region, particularly the attack on the Irigwe community in Kwall district of Bassa Local Government Area. Addressing community leaders, he acknowledged the deep pain and grief resulting from the violence, urging them to resist actions that could exacerbate the situation. “We must unite in our quest for justice against the perpetrators of these heinous acts, while also seeking to heal our communities through dialogue,” he stated.

The meeting was attended by key local figures, including Rev Ronku Aka (retired), the Mbrra Ngwe and chairman of the Bassa Traditional Council. Rev Aka expressed gratitude for the GOC’s intervention, asserting, “We will continue to engage with our people, ensuring that they allow security agencies the space to act against the criminals harming our communities.” This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Joshua Riti, the Chairman of Bassa Local Government Area, who emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to bring a permanent solution to the crisis plaguing Irigwe land.

In addition to engaging local community leaders, Major General Oyinlola met with representatives from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) from Mangu Local Government. This dialogue focused on pressing concerns such as cow rustling and the broader implications of recent attacks that resulted in significant losses, including the destruction of over 200 huts and theft of more than 100 cattle. The GOC reassured MACBAN that Operation SAFE HAVEN is actively pursuing those responsible for these crimes, while also urging stakeholders to abandon any thoughts of revenge. “An eye for an eye makes the world go blind,” he reminded them, reinforcing the importance of collective peace over retaliation.

Alhaji Ibrahim Yusuf, Chairman of MACBAN in Plateau State, expressed appreciation for the GOC’s impartiality and commitment to addressing the concerns of all parties. “We are grateful for your efforts, General Oyinlola. It is essential that the State Government acts fairly in addressing security issues for the benefit of all,” he remarked. Other participants echoed his sentiments, noting the GOC’s presence and timely actions as pivotal to calming tensions between communities.

The GOC’s engagement extended to stakeholders from Barkin Ladi, where he acknowledged the efforts of local leaders and sector commanders in maintaining peace despite external pressures from surrounding areas. He extended condolences to MACBAN Barkin Ladi for the tragic loss of their Chairman, a key figure in promoting stability within the Community.

Several pressing issues were raised during the discussions, including illegal settlements, farm destruction, and underage grazing practices, all of which contribute to ongoing disputes between herders and farmers. In response, Major General Oyinlola instructed the Sector Commander to prioritize these challenges, assuring stakeholders that he would support initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability.

The proactive measures taken by Major General Folusho Oyinlola and Operation SAFE HAVEN underscore a commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation among diverse communities in Plateau State. By engaging with local leaders and addressing their concerns directly, the GOC is not only tackling immediate security threats but also laying the groundwork for a more harmonious future. As stakeholders unite in their pursuit of peace, the hope is that these collaborative efforts will ultimately lead to a lasting resolution to the ethnic strife that has troubled the region for far too long.