The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, has convened a meeting with stakeholders to address the renewed crisis in Riyom and Jos South Local Government Areas of Plateau State.
According to a press release issued by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer, Operation SAFE HAVEN, on May 15, 2025, the Commander emphasised the strategic necessity of the engagement for achieving sustainable peace, security, and development in the affected areas.
He commended the residents of Jos South and Riyom for their past commitment to peaceful coexistence.
The Commander expressed concern about the increasing incidents of farm destruction and cattle rustling, describing them as triggers of the crisis that should be condemned to promote mutual understanding between herders and farmers.
He stressed the importance of community-based conflict resolution mechanisms, with traditional, religious, and community leaders playing a central role in facilitating dialogue between aggrieved parties.
General Oyinlola reminded stakeholders that “hostility is not the best way to resolve any crisis” and urged them to understand one another, address grievances, and work towards peaceful coexistence.
He stated that while pursuing non-kinetic conflict resolution, Operation SAFE HAVEN troops remain committed to “flush out arm-carrying criminals” within their area of operation. He also urged the LGAs to provide accurate biometric databases of residents and immigrants to mitigate the risks posed by undocumented individuals.
Stakeholders, including the Chairmen of Riyom and Jos South LGAs, acknowledged that violence only exacerbates crises and called for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
They lamented the negative impact of the crisis on the younger generation, who are growing up in a society marked by violence.
The stakeholders agreed that all infractions should be reported to security agencies to avoid resorting to self-help, which endangers lives. They also advocated for strengthening the judicial system to impose “harsh punishment” on perpetrators of attacks, both those caught in the act and those convicted after investigations, to deter others.
Additionally, they urged security agencies to use technology to protect communities and identify attackers for immediate action.
Plateau State Governor Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his Senior Special Adviser on Community Relations, affirmed the government’s commitment to preventing further attacks and protecting the people.
He encouraged the people to “eschew bitterness, be objective”, and collaborate in combating insecurity. He also urged security agencies to enhance their efforts to address potential security threats.
The meeting included heads of security agencies, traditional leaders, religious leaders, community leaders, youth representatives, women leaders, and government functionaries from Riyom and Jos South.
Share Your Views