From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has said the Federal Government would deploy more troops to troubled Plateau communities to curb attacks.
He, however, said no matter the number of troops deployed, tranquility could only be assured when the people decide to be tolerant, forgive each other and embrace peace at all times.
Speaking to newsmen at a meeting with critical stakeholders of Bokkos Local Government Area yesterday, he promised that troops would continue to be neutral, professional and fair to all, irrespective of tribe and religion.
The COAS also assured the people that the perpetrators of the heinous crime would be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.
“The security agencies may deploy battalions of troops to Bokkos and we may not achieve the desired peace.
“The security agencies don’t have the numbers to deploy personnel to everywhere, so we must learn to coexist.
“Peace in Bokkos and Plateau is possible, but that can be achieved only when we all agree to eschew violence and embrace peace,” he said.
Also speaking, the General Officer Commanding, 3 Armoured Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Maj. Fusho Oyinlola, vowed that his troops would leave no stone unturned to arrest the perpetrators of the recent crisis.
He said the meeting was convened barely one month after a similar engagement with them due to the disturbing security situation in Bokkos LGA and environs.
“The recent coordinated attacks on communities have led to loss of lives and property, disrupted livelihoods and deepened divisions among the people.
“This engagement is, therefore, an opportunity to address these. The senseless acts of violence that was witnessed in some of our communities must stop.
“Let me make it unequivocally clear that any further attacks on innocent civilians, destruction of property or acts of lawlessness will be decisively dealt with.
“OPSH, alongside other security agencies, will not stand idly while criminal elements destabilise our communities.
“Those who think they can take the law into their hands and go unpunished should rethink their actions because the full weight of the law will be brought upon them.
“While military action alone cannot bring about lasting peace, sustainable peace is a collective responsibility which requires commitment from every stakeholder,” the GOC said