By Shikmuut Bawa
In a renewed effort to strengthen stability and promote peaceful coexistence across Plateau State, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP), Major General Folusho Oyinlola, has intensified his peace advocacy campaigns with strategic visits to Christian and Muslim worship centres in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
In a statement by Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the ongoing engagements form part of the military’s sustained non-kinetic approach to addressing lingering farmer-herder tensions and preventing violence during the harvest and upcoming yuletide seasons.
Addressing a Christian congregation in Barkin Ladi on November 9, 2025, Major General Oyinlola emphasized the neutrality and professionalism of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, assuring worshippers of the military’s commitment to safeguarding all citizens irrespective of tribe or faith.
“The Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Police are your institutions, established for the collective good of all,” he said. “We are here for you, and we are part of you.”
The GOC reiterated the readiness of troops to respond swiftly to any security threat, stressing that community collaboration remains vital. “We cannot be everywhere. If you see something, say something. We will respond no matter the time,” he assured.
Condemning the recurring killings that have plagued Plateau communities, he vowed that OPEP under his leadership will intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks fueling the unrest. “Lives are too precious. We will work tirelessly to stop the killings on all sides.”
Continuing his advocacy on November 14, 2025, the GOC addressed Muslim faithful during Jumu’ah prayers in Mahanga, urging patience, dialogue, and renewed trust. He reminded them that Plateau State has suffered over two decades of recurring conflicts with casualties on all sides, including among security personnel.
He identified farmer-herder clashes as a major trigger, recalling that past generations used dialogue and compensation to resolve disputes before “crisis merchants” began exploiting communal divisions for personal gain.
Encouraging residents to avoid self-help, he said, “When you have a problem, you are at liberty to approach a soldier. We are trained to address your challenges; do not resort to self-help.”
With tensions often heightened during the harvest season, Major General Oyinlola urged communities to remain alert and report suspicious activities immediately. “From today, I do not want to hear of killings on any side. If anything happens, reach out to us immediately and we will act.”
He denounced those benefiting from instability and urged residents to resist such influences, reminding worshippers that Islam is a religion of peace and urging them to uphold peaceful conduct always.
The GOC also revealed plans to convene a broad stakeholders’ meeting involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and community representatives from all local government areas to consolidate peace efforts and strengthen early-warning systems.
Reaffirming the commitment of troops under 3 Division and OPEP, he stressed that no conflict can be solved through violence. He called on communities to embrace dialogue, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence for a safer and more united Plateau State. For more reports, visit www.krestnews.com