The Nigerian Army has raised an alarm of serious security threats in Plateau State, especially in known troubled spots like Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Bassa, Riyom and Mangu local government areas following a massive influx of cattle into the state.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, who raised the alarm on Tuesday during a high-level stakeholders meeting held in Barkin Ladi, called for urgent action to prevent the escalation of tensions in the area.
While addressing the audience made up of heads of security agencies, government officials, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, Maj. Gen. Oyinlola commended the residents of the council for their long-standing cooperation with security agencies and their commitment to peaceful coexistence.
He however, warned that Barkin Ladi must not be allowed to slide into unavoidable conflict, urging the strengthening of early warning systems to ensure prompt response to any security threats.
“There is a growing unease about the influx of a large number of cattle into farming communities,” he said.
“While the movement of livestock in Barkin Ladi and indeed Plateau in general is not unusual, the scale and timings of this new influx raise legitimate security concerns.”
He stated that the development is already posing a significant security threat to the area and the state at large.
According to him, the influx of cattle into the state has triggered incidents of farm destruction, isolated attacks, and other illegal activities.
“Unfortunately, this development has already resulted in adverse outcomes, including farm destruction, isolated attacks, and attacks on livestock.
“The impact of this action on food security, economic stability, and social harmony cannot be over-emphasised.
“The farming season is already ongoing, and for many families, this is a period for securing their livelihood.
“Therefore, any disruption of farming activities now will have dire consequences for the rest of the year and beyond.
“To this end, this engagement is convened to hear from you, all stakeholders, to listen to your concerns,” he stressed.
The army chief further expressed concerns over recent killings in the area and urged stakeholders to unite in addressing the violence and vowed to track down the perpetrators of the killings, saying they would face the full wrath of the law.
Also speaking at the gathering, the traditional ruler and Chairman of Barkin Ladi Traditional Council, HRH Edward Bot, condemned the attacks in the council and urged all concerned parties to operate within the law.
Chairman of Barkin Ladi LGA, Hon. Gyang Pwajok who also addressed the audience, lamented underage grazing as a trigger of conflict and commended Operation SAFE HAVEN for swiftly responding to the Gashish attack.
He urged farmers to move in groups during the upcoming farming season for their safety and called on herders to end the practice of sending underage children to graze cattle.
The member representing Barkin Ladi/Riyom Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Fom Dalyop Chollom, also applauded the efforts of security agencies and pledged to continue facilitating dialogue among stakeholders. He called for punitive measures against perpetrators of criminal acts.
Also speaking, Ardo Abubakar Abdullahi acknowledged the efforts of security agents in restoring peace. He highlighted the need for unity between farmers and herders, noting that both can thrive peacefully if mutual respect is maintained. He added that incidents of cattle rustling and kidnapping had declined recently.
