In a passionate appeal for peace and collective action, the Executive Chairman of Mangu Local Government Council, Hon. Emmanuel Mwolpun Bala, has called on stakeholders to embrace love-driven leadership as a cornerstone for building trust and unity in the local government area. He made this appeal during a Stakeholders Engagement hosted by Operation SAFE HAVEN in Mangu, emphasizing the role of compassion and mutual respect in fostering sustainable peace.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Bala highlighted that leadership anchored in love has the power to break down barriers, build bridges, and create lasting trust among people from different backgrounds. “We must lead with love. Love has the capacity to heal wounds, mend broken relationships, and establish the kind of unity that is critical for our community’s progress,” he said.
He further stressed that unity can only be achieved when leaders and citizens alike demonstrate genuine care for one another. “A community that is founded on love and trust is a community that will thrive. We need to show that love is not just a word but a principle that guides our decisions and actions in leadership,” Hon. Bala added.
The Chairman’s message resonated with the audience, as he called on traditional rulers, security agencies, and other local leaders to prioritize collaboration and understanding in their engagements. He pointed out that it is through love-driven leadership that longstanding conflicts can be resolved and peace maintained in Mangu LGA.
Hon. Bala commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for organizing the Stakeholders Engagement and praised their continuous efforts in ensuring security and peace in the area. “Operation SAFE HAVEN has shown that security is not just about force; it is about working with the people, understanding their needs, and resolving disputes peacefully,” he remarked.
He also urged the citizens of Mangu to cooperate with the authorities and take an active role in fostering peace by practicing tolerance, empathy, and forgiveness. “As leaders, we must lead by example, but we also need the people to show love to one another, irrespective of differences. This is how we can rebuild the trust that has been eroded by conflict,” he said.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by the local farmers, Hon. Bala stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence as the farming season approaches. He urged stakeholders to ensure that the land is safe for agricultural activities, stating that agriculture is the backbone of the local economy and must not be disrupted by conflicts. “Let love guide our actions as we prepare for the farming season. It is only in peace that we can grow, both in agriculture and as a community,” he advised.
The Chairman reiterated his belief that love-driven leadership would not only build trust but also create an environment where everyone feels safe and valued. He assured the people of Mangu that his administration remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace, unity, and development.
Hon. Bala’s call for love-driven leadership left a powerful message for all present. His words reinforced the need for leaders and citizens to work together in the spirit of love, trust, and unity to ensure a brighter future for Mangu LGA.
With the support of Operation SAFE HAVEN and the commitment of all stakeholders, Hon. Bala expressed optimism that Mangu could regain its reputation as a peaceful and prosperous community, united in love and purpose.
During The Program, The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General EF Oyinlola, has reaffirmed the security forces’ commitment to maintaining peace in Plateau State, Where he emphasized the need for unified action to ensure a secure 2025 farming season.
Oyinlola stressed the importance of security for prosperity, noting that farming and herding are the backbone of livelihoods in the region. “Security remains the bedrock of any society’s progress,” he stated, warning that insecurity disrupts farming, affecting households and heightening tensions.
The GOC called on stakeholders to resist violence and work collaboratively with security agencies to prevent conflicts that could jeopardize the farming season. Reflecting on past successes, the GOC highlighted the reduction in clashes between herders and farmers, which led to a peaceful harvest last year. “We must consolidate on the gains made so far by ensuring the forthcoming farming season is incident-free,” he urged, emphasizing dialogue and forgiveness over conflict.
