From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
The police and operatives of the Special Task force on internal security in Jos, Operation Safe Haven ((OPSH) have pledged to work in synergy to maintain peace in Plateau state in the aftermath of the recent breakdown of law and order in some parts of the state.
Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina and General Officer Commanding, 3 Division, and Commander Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) Maj Gen. Folusho Oyinlola made the pledge during the Maiden Stakeholders’ Engagement Organised By the Police at the Police Officers Mess yesterday in Jos.
The CP reiterated that peace is very important to communal existence and enjoined the people to learn to tolerate one another.
Adesina enjoined them to report any incidence that could lead to breakdown of law and order.
In particular, the commissioner said that as agrarian communities, they wouldn’t be able to go to their farms if there’s no peace.
He said: “As we are all aware, our people in the local government across the state, the farmers, have to go to their farm. We have to provide security,and we have to give them assurance of safety. All of us together, we are going to do this.”
All the people who spoke at the meeting pledged to get the message down to their people and to ensure that peace and tranquility prevailed
On his own part, Oyinlola, who described the engagement as timely and strategic, said it’s aimed at fostering dialogue, building mutual understanding and reinforcing the collective commitment to peace and security within Plateau State and environs.
The GOC said that the meeting had become imperative having understood the critical role that stakeholders play in sustaining peace, promoting harmony and ensuring that various communities thrive in a safe environment.
He said:”The significance of today’s engagement cannot be overemphasized. It is a testament to our unified resolve to address the challenges we face, not with violence or division, but through collaboration, empathy and shared responsibility.
“ Security is not solely the responsibility of security agencies. It is a collective task that requires the participation and cooperation of all segments of society: the government, security forces, community leaders, youth groups, religious institutions, civil society organizations, and indeed every peace-loving citizen. In Plateau State, we have witnessed both the devastating effects of conflict and the transformative power of peace.
While urging the people to embrace peace, the STF commander stated unequivocally that violence, reprisal attacks and mutual suspicion only serve to undermine the future everyone desire, adding that they deepen wounds, prolong suffering and hinder progress.
He therefore ,enjoined residents of the state to eschew violence and learn to live in peace with one another.