In response to the recent wave of deadly attacks in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Oluyemi Oluyede, on Monday led a high-powered military delegation to the affected communities, pledging to end the spate of violence and restore lasting peace.
Gunmen had invaded five communities in Bokkos, leaving a trail of destruction and loss of lives. The COAS visited the scenes of the attacks and assessed the scale of devastation firsthand.
Addressing residents and stakeholders, General Oluyede assured that those behind the “heinous crimes” would be apprehended and prosecuted.
> “Let me assure you that the Nigerian Army under my leadership will not rest until those responsible for this violence are brought to justice. We are committed to restoring peace and ensuring this never happens again,” he declared.
The Army Chief emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence among the diverse communities in Plateau State and promised to deploy additional security personnel to the vulnerable areas to protect lives and property.
A stakeholders’ meeting was held during the visit and was attended by Major General Folusho Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH); representatives of the Plateau State Government; traditional leaders; and religious leaders from both Christian and Muslim communities.
Reinforcing the COAS’s stance, Major General Oyinlola issued a stern warning to criminal elements behind the attacks, declaring that further acts of violence would no longer be tolerated.
> “The senseless acts of violence witnessed in some of our communities must stop. OPSH and other security agencies will not fold their arms while criminal elements destabilize our communities.
“Anyone who takes the law into their hands will be decisively dealt with. Enough is enough,” the GOC stated.
General Oyinlola reiterated that while military efforts would be intensified, lasting peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility, dialogue, and reconciliation.
> “Let me remind all stakeholders that violence has never solved any problem. True peace requires dialogue, mutual understanding, and commitment from all parties,” he said.
The visit comes amid growing concern over the rising security challenges in Plateau and the Middle Belt region. Many residents have expressed cautious optimism that the Army’s renewed commitment will lead to concrete action and sustainable peace.
