The Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, has met with residents of Southern Kaduna as part of his community engagements to bring stakeholders into line with the mission of purging the Plateau and southern Kaduna of criminals.
The Commander also committed to act forcefully with criminals who carry out assaults in the region that result in the loss of life and property.
During a meeting with key stakeholders from Kaduna State’s five local government areas covered by OPSH, Gen Abdulsalam stated that the recurring isolated killings, farm destruction, cow poisoning, cattle rustling, kidnappings, and other criminal acts must stop immediately.
He cautioned individuals who cause instability for selfish reasons to embrace peace and find legitimate ways of subsistence or face the consequences of their wicked intent. He also stated that multiple steps are being studied to guarantee that the region stays unsuitable for criminals.
While accepting replies from local traditional, religious, and community leaders, the Commander also warned residents about the dangers of hiding criminals from security services.
He also denounced the effect of drug addiction among the youth as a stimulant for criminality in the area, and he urged the people to make a genuine commitment to the path of peace.
“I urge you all to take this message to the most remote communities, warn your subjects and take the lead in the speedy settlement of disputes in your domain,” he said.
Earlier, the Commander and members of his entourage paid homage to His Royal Highness Agwatyap Dominic Gambo, the Paramount Ruler of Atyap Chiefdom, where he reassured His Royal Majesty of his commitment to finding long-term solutions to senseless killings and property destruction in the region using both kinetic and non-kinetic lines of operation.
The Commander also stated that personnel response to distress calls has improved as additional troops have been recruited to Southern Kaduna in the recent 48 hours. He also committed to dealing with illegal crimes regardless of tribe or faith, demonstrating his dedication to justice and fairness.
Representatives from the Atyap, Fulani, Hausa, Ikuru, Christian Association of Nigeria, Jamatul Nasir Islam, and traditional and religious leaders spoke at the gathering.
While voicing their grievances, the speakers committed to supporting OPSH’s plans for putting a stop to attacks on individuals and communities in the region by catching bad actors and turning them over to security services.
The proliferation of small guns and light weapons was also identified as a contributing factor to the region’s issue, and all stakeholders were urged to seize these illicit weapons and turn them over to authorities immediately.
