Major General Oyinlola Intensifies Peace Advocacy Ahead Of Harvest and Yuletide Seasons
In a significant efforts to bolster stability and peaceful coexistence, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP), Major General Folusho Oyinlola, has conducted a series of strategic visits to Christian and Muslim worship centres in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State
The engagements are part of ongoing non-kinetic efforts across Plateau State, aimed to address lingering farmer-herder tensions and mitigate the risk of violence during the harvest and upcoming yuletide seasons.
On November 9, 2025, Major General Oyinlola addressed a Christian congregation in Barkin Ladi, emphasizing the neutrality and professionalism of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He assured worshippers that the military is committed to protecting all citizens, irrespective of ethnic or religious background.
“The Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Police are your institutions, established for the collective good of all,” he stated. “We are here for you and we are part of you.”
The GOC assured the community of the military’s readiness to respond swiftly to security breaches and stressed the importance of collaboration. “We cannot be everywhere. If you see something, say something. We will respond no matter the time of day,” he said.
He strongly condemned the persistent killings that have plagued the region, vowing that under his command, OPEP will intensify efforts to dismantle the criminal networks fueling the crisis. “Lives are too precious. We will work tirelessly to stop the killings on all sides,” he affirmed.
The GOC continued his advocacy on November 14, 2025, by engaging Muslim faithful during Jumu’ah prayers in Mahanga. He highlighted the need for patience, dialogue, and mutual trust, noting that Plateau State has endured over two decades of recurring conflict with casualties on all sides, including security personnel.
Identifying farmer-herder clashes as a major trigger, Major General Oyinlola recalled how previous generations resolved disputes peacefully through dialogue and compensation. He expressed concern that “crisis merchants” now exploit ethnic and communal clashes for personal gain, escalating the violence.
He urged the community to avoid taking the law into their own hands. “When you have a problem, you are at liberty to approach a soldier. We are trained to address your challenges; do not resort to self-help,” he said.
Directing community members to remain vigilant throughout the harvest period, the GOC warned that this season historically witnesses heightened tensions. “From today, I do not want to hear of killings on any side. If anything happens, reach out to us immediately and we will act,” he stated.
He further condemned the activities of those who profit from instability and called for collective resistance against such influences. Concluding his address, Major General Oyinlola reminded worshippers that Islam is a religion of peace and urged them to embody this principle in their daily lives.
Looking ahead, the GOC disclosed plans to convene a comprehensive stakeholders’ meeting in the coming days. The meeting will bring together traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth representatives, and community stakeholders from all local government areas to consolidate peace efforts and strengthen early-warning mechanisms.
Reaffirming the commitment of the 3 Division and OPEP troops, Major General Oyinlola emphasized that no conflict is resolved through violence. He urged all communities to prioritize dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence as the best path forward for Plateau State.
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