Major General AE Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of the Special Task Force Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), recently addressed a gathering of Plateau State stakeholders in Mangu Town. The occasion, organized by the Miskhagam Mwaghavul community, served as a platform for the commander to provide insights into the ongoing efforts to curtail the proliferation of illegal arms and promote sustainable peace in the Joint Operation Area covering Plateau, Bauchi, and Kaduna States.
During the meeting, Major General Abubakar emphasized the critical importance of mopping up illegal arms, ammunition, and weapons within the region. He underscored the significance of forgiveness as a pivotal component in ending the cycle of violence that has plagued Mangu Local Government Area and the broader Plateau State.
Major General Abubakar emphasized that the resolution of underlying conflict triggers was essential for the eradication of crises in the region. In alignment with the directives from the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff, he reiterated the commitment to taking all necessary legal actions to halt the perpetuation of violence in Mangu Local Government Area. He also called for the preservation and respect of traditional institutions, which play a crucial role in maintaining peace. Major General Abubakar condemned the criminal act involving the killing of the Ardo of Panyam, assuring that those responsible would soon be brought to justice.
Furthermore, prominent figures, including His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr) Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, the Emir of Wase, His Royal Highness Da John Hirse, and Honorable Markus Artu, Chairman of the Mangu Local Government Area Transition Committee, commended Major General Abubakar for his dedication to promoting peace and security in the state. They highlighted the importance of dialogue in conflict resolution and urged the local population to embrace peaceful coexistence.
Professor Sonni Tyoden, the former Deputy Governor of Plateau State, expressed gratitude for the platform created by the event, enabling stakeholders to voice their concerns and collaborate on addressing various issues. He emphasized the pivotal role of traditional rulers in guiding their respective communities toward reconciliation and unity.
Notable attendees at the gathering included Professor Sonni Tyoden, the Emir of Wase, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr) Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, His Royal Highness Da John Hirse, Chairman of the Mangu LGA Transition Committee Honorable Markus Artu, and Honorable Bala Fwangje, the Member Representing Mangu South in the Plateau State House of Assembly and Chief Whip. Additionally, representatives from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Mangu LGA, Mwaghavul Development Association, and the Christian Association of Nigeria, Mangu LGA, were present.
The meeting featured a range of discussions from dignitaries and stakeholders representing the Fulani and Mangu communities, culminating in group photographs as a testament to their collective commitment to peace and security in the region.
