Christian leaders on the Plateau have decried the rising spate of insecurity and killings in the state, describing the situation as a grave threat to peace and unity.
This was conveyed during a courtesy visit to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander of the Special Task Force (STF), Operation Safe Haven, Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar. Led by Rev. Dr. Amos M. Mohzo, President of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN).
the delegation included notable clerics such as Rev. Dr. Job Bagat Ayuba (ECWA President), Rt. Rev. Dr. Juan Zhumbes (Anglican Bishop Bukuru), Rt. Rev. Ephraim Gongden (Anglican Bishop Jos), Rt. Rev. Dr. Daniel Agbese (Methodist Bishop Jos), Rev. Dunka Gomwalk (PFN Chairman), and Rev. Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam of the Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, among others.
During the visit, Rev. Mohzo highlighted the devastating impact of the recurring violence, particularly with the festive season drawing near.
“It is disheartening to see families still mourning their loved ones while others live in constant fear. Just last night, on December 22nd, 15 Irigwe lives were lost in Riyom LGA around Ganawuri, and an ECWA Church elder was killed in NTV village along the Bokkos road,” he lamented.
The delegation raised concerns over intelligence reports suggesting potential attacks in Fan District and Ridoh (Gidan Ado), urging swift military action to avert further tragedies.
“We must act swiftly. The festive season should be one of joy, not of mourning. We are appealing for the immediate deployment of more troops and enhanced surveillance in these vulnerable regions to prevent more bloodshed,” Rev. Mohzo pleaded.
While commending the Nigerian Armed Forces for their efforts, he stressed the need for increased military presence and collaboration with local vigilantes.
“The military has made progress, but the challenges are far from over. We need more boots on the ground, more patrols, and stronger partnerships with local vigilantes,” he added
. The leaders also proposed regular patrols, enhanced early-warning systems, and stronger collaboration between security agencies and community stakeholders.
“Our people are stranded, unable to return to their ancestral lands. This issue must be addressed if we are to achieve lasting peace and economic recovery,” Rev. Mohzo emphasized.
In response, Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar reassured the delegation of the military’s commitment to peace in Plateau State, citing recent successes in curbing violence.
“As of 3 a.m. this morning, we’ve arrested 15 perpetrators involved in an unprovoked attack. These individuals will soon be paraded for the public to see,” he revealed.
The GOC, however, cautioned against the dangers of misinformation, which he noted often complicates decision-making.
“Intelligence is another critical component; however, misinformation often complicates our decision-making. False reports drain resources and stretch our personnel thin. Communities must ensure that the information they share is credible and actionable,” he explained.
He also highlighted the importance of creating enabling environments for displaced persons to return to their homes, referencing successful reconstruction initiatives in Southern Kaduna as a model for Plateau communities.
Maj. Gen. Abubakar commended the contributions of local vigilantes and religious leaders in promoting peace.
“The Christian community’s initiatives, such as bringing widows together and addressing community needs, have greatly reduced retaliation and contributed to the peace process. Such collaborations are essential for building lasting peace,” he affirmed.
The visit coincided with the first anniversary of the Bokkos attacks, a somber reminder of the urgent need for collective action to restore peace in Plateau State.
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