Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), the task force responsible for security in Plateau State, is taking a new approach in restive Bokkos and Mangu areas. The initiative involves a series of meetings with community stakeholders, including leaders, youths, and traditional rulers, aimed at fostering open dialogue and building trust between communities and security forces.
Bokkos and Mangu have continued to grapple with violence and bloodshed, fueled by tensions resulting from incessant attacks by radicalized, Islamist terrorists alongside general criminal activity and military brutality. The Nigerian Army, led by the Commander of OPSH, Major General AE Abubakar, met with key stakeholders from the towns on Wednesday to identify root causes of local tensions, and to find collaborative solutions to improve security in the troubled counties.
The meeting comes days after armed invaders attacked the Plateau State University in Bokkos and nearby communities. The attack claimed the lives of at least 16 civilians and four students. Students protested to demand accountability from the military but soldiers on duty, acting on the command of Col. C.Y. Ofurumazi opened fire on the student protesters, increasing the casualty figures.
According to a statement on the Nigerian Army’s social media pages, Maj. Gen. Abubakar “expressed displeasure over the reoccurring breach of security, which has resulted in the death of innocent civilians.” He urged locals to support the efforts of the security forces while assuring that the attackers would be apprehended.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
