Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, met with critical stakeholders, opinion leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies and the Chairmen of the affected Local Government Areas in Plateau State on how to restore peace and security in the State.
At the meeting, the Minister expressed happiness over the already existing peace, calling for its sustenance particularly in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos, Wase and Bassa Local Government Areas (LGAs), emphasizing the need for peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.
Urging both sides to desist from violence, Badaru identified negligence by some leaders, criminal exploitation and ethno-religious tensions as factors that perpetuates crisis.
He called for community engagement, credible intelligence, and collective action to address security challenges.
According to a statement by Ministry of Defence Director of Information and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, the Minister said: “The Federal Government is committed to deploying all assets to ensure our people sleep with their eyes closed.”
The Minister welcomed suggestions from stakeholders, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to implementing plans for lasting peace.
Earlier, the Minister addressed senior officers, officers, and men combating insecurity in Plateau State.
“I’m honoured to be with you today to express gratitude on your tireless efforts in restoring normalcy to Plateau State. The President has sent me to thank you and urge you to do more,” he said.
The Minister acknowledged the significant progress made in the fight against insecurity, citing the retrieval of numerous weapons, ammunition, and dismantling of local arms-producing factories. He advised the officers and men to intensify their efforts until insecurity is eradicated.
“Are you ready to end insecurity in Plateau? Your dedication is crucial. I will inform the President of your commitment,” he said.
On his part, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, represented by Special Adviser on Security and Homeland Safety, Brigadier General Gakji Shipi, expressed optimism about the outcomes of the stakeholders’ engagement, highlighting the positive developments that arose during the discussions.
He acknowledged the significance of such dialogues in tackling the ongoing security challenges in Plateau State and promised to keep supporting the officers and men of the Nigerian Military in the fight against insecurity in the State.
