…to work-out adequate security measures during the festive season.
by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The General Officer Commanding 3 Division/Commander of “Operation SAFE HAVEN,” Major-General E.F. Oyinlola, has said that he understands the critical role that stakeholders play in sustaining peace, promoting harmony and ensuring that their communities thrive in a safe environment.
He was speaking during the maiden stakeholders’ engagement convened by the Plateau State Commissioner of Police on Thursday, at Police Officers’ Mess, Jos.
The GOC noted that, “The significance of today’s engagement cannot be overemphasized. It is a testament to our unified resolve to address the challenges we face, not with violence or division, but through collaboration, empathy and shared responsibility.”
He stressed that, “Security is not solely the responsibility of security agencies alone, but it is a collective task that requires the participation and cooperation of all segments of society – the government, security forces, community leaders, youth groups, religious institutions, civil society organizations and, indeed, every peace-loving citizen.”
The GOC explained that, “In Plateau State, we have witnessed both the devastating effects of conflict and the transformative power of peace. We must choose peace.
“Violence, reprisal attacks and mutual suspicion only serve to undermine the future we all desire. They deepen wounds, prolong suffering and hinder progress. In contrast, peace paves the way for development, enhances opportunities, and fosters unity,” he said.
Major-General Oyinlola further explained that, the engagement provides them the opportunity to speak honestly, to listen attentively and to commit themselves to practical solutions.
While urging all stakeholders to embrace the platform not only as a forum for dialogue but as a launch-pad for sustained peace-building efforts, he equally called on all and sundry to engage with open minds and open hearts.
“As we continue to carry out our constitutional mandate to protect lives and property, we assure you of our unwavering commitment to fairness, impartiality, and respect for human rights,” he stated.
“Operation SAFE HAVEN, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains steadfast in its efforts to create an enabling environment where peace can flourish,” the GOC stated.
He, therefore, appealed to all stakeholders to join them in the noble cause and let them reject violence in all its forms, condemn incitement, and become ambassadors of peace within their respective communities.
He added that, “The future of Plateau State and, indeed the nation, depends on the decisions we make today; and let us choose the path of dialogue over conflict, reconciliation over division, and peace over violence.”
While commending the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State, for the initiative, the GOC encouraged all those present to take full ownership of the process, saying, “Together, we can and will build a safer, more prosperous and more united society.”
The stakeholders meeting was in response to certain germane security issues ahead of the forthcoming Easter and Sallah celebrations, as well as security challenges such as illegal mining activities, farmer/herder clashes, inter-communal conflicts, and other issues which pose potential threats to peace and security currently being enjoyed in the State.
Speaking earlier, the Commissioner of Police Plateau State Command, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, while welcoming the stakeholders, highlighted the importance of collective efforts in addressing security challenges.
He encouraged them to engage freely, and suggest possible solutions to issues posing security threats in their communities; he also reiterated the commitment of the Plateau State Police Command to safeguarding lives and property in the state.
The meeting was attended by the Governor of Plateau State, represented by the Permanent Secretary on Security, Mr Wycliffe Biwet, the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Joyce Ramnap, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports/Chairman PCRC, Hon. Musa Ashoms, and other top Government officials.
On the list were also, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division of the Nigerian Army/Commander Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Maj-Gen E.F. Oyinlola, the Commander 551 NAF Station, Air Commodore BR Amuda; the Director, Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), Arch. Hart Bankat, other security heads.
Among the list were also: the Gbong-Gwom Jos/Chairman Plateau State Joint Traditional Council, represented by the Ujah of Anaguta, HRH Pozoh Johnson Magaji, other traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, youth groups, market unions, security help groups, the NLC/TUC, and many others.
The meeting was a platform for robust discussions and strategic planning to ensure a safe and peaceful Plateau State during the upcoming festive/farming season.
The CP also reaffirmed the commitment of the Command to maintaining peace and security in the state, while assuring all residents and visitors of his dedication to ensuring a secure and peaceful environment for the forthcoming festive/farming season.
Also, the State Governor, Barr Caleb Mutfwang, reiterated the significance of community engagement in enhancing security measures, and assured the stakeholders of the State Government’s unwavering commitment in ensuring the safety and security of Plateau residents.