Army chief Oluyede meets with Plateau communities amid deadly attacks, promises security
On Monday, April 7, following the deadly attacks on communities in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, met with local leaders to discuss peace and security in the region.
Earlier, unidentified gunmen had attacked several communities, including Hurti, Ruwi, Josho, Daffo, and Manguna. These attacks resulted in over 50 deaths, the destruction of more than 300 homes, and the displacement of over 1,000 residents.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the violence as a coordinated effort by “conflict profiteers,” rather than a simple farmer-herder clash.
At the peace meeting, General Oluyede stressed that the Nigerian Army’s approach would be focused on fostering long-term peace and stability in Bokkos and nearby areas. He encouraged the residents to embrace tolerance, forgiveness, and peace. He said, “I wish to assure you that our troops will continue to remain neutral, professional, and fair to all, regardless of tribe or religion.”
He also promised that the perpetrators of the attacks would be caught and brought to justice, adding, “Even if a battalion of troops were deployed to Bokkos, we might still fall short of achieving the desired peace. The security forces simply do not have the numbers to be present in every location. We, as a people, must learn to coexist peacefully.”
The army chief also pledged to send more security personnel to the affected areas to ensure the safety of residents and their property.
Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Rukuba, emphasized the importance of working closely with other security agencies to ensure a peaceful farming season in the region.
Alo Raymond, the District Head of Manguna, urged the security forces to track down and arrest those behind the attacks. He claimed that land grabbing was one of the motivations behind the assaults. Raymond also called for more security personnel to be deployed and asked the government to support displaced families with food and other essentials.
The meeting, which took place in Bokkos, was attended by government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community heads, and representatives from youth and women’s groups. The event highlighted the need for unity and cooperation to restore peace and security in the region.
