Military Task Force redeployed more troops to stop further killings in Plateau

By Mark Moses

The Commander, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) and General Officer Commanding 3 Division of the Nigeria Army, Major General Ibrahim Ali has said more troops have been redeployed with instructions to stop further killings in Jebbu Miango in Bassa and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State.

He noted that the troops were also mandated to stop burning of houses and destruction of crops and looting of valuables in the rural communities by suspected bandits.

Gen. Ali disclosed this on Monday while presenting relief materials to Bra Nggwe Irigwe, Rev. Ronku Aka, Chairman, Bassa traditional Council for onwards delivery to survivors of bloody attacks in Miango communities in Plateau State.

He urged the troops to be fair to all irrespective of religion or ethnicity and expressed sadness over the persistent killings and destruction of farmland in the state and pledged to put in all his military experience to halt the evil activities.

Gen. Ali who also presented relief materials to survivors in Tomborong village at Ganawuri in Riyom Local Government Area.

“We are not happy over what is happening and we will do everything possible to stop the sad events. We have deployed more troops to these communities to stop the killings and destruction of crops.

“We have come up with mobile lines that you can call in terms of emergency and if the sector Commander do not respond, you are free to call my direct lines. We will collaborate to ensure peace return to Bassa so that displaced persons can return to their home.

“We are presenting these relief materials to assist the people who were displaced and the crops burnt and destroyed. We thought that these can help the people pick up life.”

Gen. Ali said the Command is investigating the alleged statement made by some soldiers who said they were asked not to shoot when the attack was going on.

He noted there is no way he will give that kind of instruction, adding that in every military operation, troops knows what is expected of them in every situation.

The Bra Nggwe Irigwe, Rev. Ronku Aka begged nthe military to do something urgently to secure his people.

“Our people have suffered enough in the hands of the Fulani, enough of the killings and destruction of crops on farmlands.”

He pledged to give the Commander maximum corporation to end the babaric killings in the land.