The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Oluyemi Oluyede, has pledged to bring the perpetrators of the recent deadly attacks in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State to justice. The attacks, which claimed the lives of over 60 people across five communities, have sparked outrage and calls for decisive action.
During an on-the-ground assessment visit to the affected areas, General Oluyede, accompanied by senior military officers, condemned the killings and assured residents that the Nigerian Army would intensify efforts to restore peace and security. He emphasized that all those involved in the heinous acts would be arrested and prosecuted.
The COAS held high-level meetings with local stakeholders, including Major General Folusho Oyinlola—General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH)—as well as representatives from the Plateau State Government, religious leaders, and traditional rulers.
General Oluyede promised increased deployment of troops to the troubled communities, assuring residents that the forces would operate with professionalism, neutrality, and respect for all, regardless of ethnicity or religion. He called for unity among the people and urged them to reject division and violence.
Speaking during the visit, Major General Oyinlola warned that any further attacks on civilians would not be tolerated. “The senseless acts of violence must stop. OPSH and other security agencies will not allow criminal elements to destabilize our communities. Anyone who takes the law into their own hands will face the full consequences,” he declared.
He stressed that military efforts alone cannot sustain peace and called on community leaders and residents to collaborate with security forces in building trust and fostering dialogue.
“Violence only leads to more suffering and hatred,” Oyinlola noted. “History teaches us that even the most prolonged conflicts have only been resolved through dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation.”
The Army’s leadership reiterated its commitment to long-term peace in Plateau State, assuring citizens that justice would be served and lasting security achieved through a combination of military vigilance and community cooperation.
