In a bid to address the longstanding security crisis in Plateau State, a Fact-Finding Team convened by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa engaged with critical stakeholders in a strategic meeting held at the 3 Division Auditorium, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos.
Chaired by Major General Augustine Agundu (Rtd), the seven-member team was tasked with garnering on-the-ground insights and formulating effective strategies to bring a conclusive end to the persistent conflict in the state. The meeting, attended by representatives from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the local Fulani community, and other residents, sought to gather input and advice from federal and state governments, as well as the military.
In his opening address, Major General Agundu emphasized the imperative of unity, the unequivocal denouncement of criminal activities, and the paramount importance of honesty in achieving lasting peace. He called upon political leaders to adopt conciliatory language and tones in their public engagements.
Stakeholders voiced their concerns during the meeting, highlighting the urgent need to fortify the judicial system and expedite justice delivery by establishing a special court as a deterrent to potential criminals. They underscored the importance of integrating followers from both Islamic and Christian religions for effective peace-building processes. The stakeholders condemned the surge in isolated killings and urged the Plateau government to mediate between warring factions using a comprehensive approach that considers the perspectives of all involved parties.
Expressing deep concern over the influx of sophisticated weapons into the state, stakeholders called on the government to take immediate action to prevent this through identified channels. 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. They emphasized the need for individual determination in ending the crisis and recommended enhancing traditional institutions to address security concerns within their local domains.
The Fact-Finding Team, led by Major General Agundu, successfully visited the Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi local government areas, as well as the headquarters of security agencies operating in the state. The team also visited communities affected by recent attacks, gathering critical insights for a comprehensive understanding of the security challenges in Plateau State.
