PLATEAU SECURITY: CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF FACT-FINDING TEAM ENGAGES CRITICAL STAKEHOLDERS TO ADDRESS PROLONGED CRISIS
A Fact-Finding Team, formed by Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa (CDS), met with key stakeholders in Plateau State to seek viable solutions in bringing an end to the long-standing crises. The meeting, held at the 3 Division Auditorium Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, was attended by representatives from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), local Fulani community, and other local residents.
Led by Major General Augustine Agundu (Rtd), the team of seven members, was formed to gather on-the-ground insights and formulate effective strategies to resolve the prolonged conflict in the state. The meeting aimed to seek input and advice from the federal and state governments, as well as the military, on how to conclusively halt the crisis.
During his opening speech, Major General Agundu emphasized the necessity of unity, denouncement of criminal activities and the paramount importance of honesty in achieving the desired peace. He also encouraged political leaders to utilize conciliatory language and tones during their public engagements.
Key stakeholders who spoke expressed the urgent need to strengthen the judicial system and expedite justice delivery through the establishment of a special court as a deterrent to potential criminals. They stressed the essential integration of followers from both the Islamic and Christian religions to facilitate effective peace-building processes by the state.
The stakeholders expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of isolated killings and called upon the Plateau government to mediate between warring factions using a comprehensive approach that encompasses the perspectives of all involved parties. The stakeholders strongly condemned the influx of sophisticated weapons into the state and urged the government to take immediate action to prevent the influx through identified channels.
In separate remarks, Reverend Father Polycap Lubo, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria Plateau State chapter, and Alhaji Dr Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, Chairman of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam Plateau State chapter, vehemently condemned religious profiling and the stereotyping of any ethnic group as criminals. These religious leaders emphasized the necessity for individual determination in ending the crisis. They recommended enhancing traditional institutions to address security concerns within their local domains and emphasized the need to apprehend individuals who perpetuate the ongoing conflict.
The fact-finding team successfully visited the Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi local government areas, as well as the headquarters of security agencies operating in the state, where they engaged with critical stakeholders. Additionally, the team visited communities affected by recent attacks.
More photos below.
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