Fact-Finding Team Engages Key Stakeholders in Plateau State Crisis

In a concerted effort to address the enduring crises in Plateau State, a Fact-Finding Team led by Major General Augustine Agundu (Rtd) convened a crucial meeting at the 3 Division Auditorium in Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos. The team, formed by Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa (CDS), comprised seven members and was meticulously assembled to garner on-the-ground insights from key stakeholders and formulate robust strategies for conflict resolution.

Representatives from diverse backgrounds were present at the meeting, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the local Fulani community, and other residents. This inclusive gathering aimed to foster a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted issues contributing to the protracted conflict in Plateau State. Major General Agundu (Rtd) emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts and dialogue in finding lasting solutions.

Major General Agundu (Rtd) Stresses Collaborative Approach. towards plateau state crisis

During the meeting, Major General Agundu (Rtd) reiterated the significance of a collaborative approach to effectively address the longstanding crises in Plateau State. The retired military officer, leading the Fact-Finding Team, emphasized the need for cooperation between the federal and state governments, military forces, and local communities. He highlighted the team’s commitment to gathering insights directly from the affected regions, ensuring that the proposed strategies resonate with the ground realities of the conflict.

The engagement with representatives from the Christian and Muslim communities, as well as the local Fulani population, underscores the team’s commitment to inclusivity and unbiased fact-finding. Major General Agundu (Rtd) expressed optimism that the collective wisdom derived from this diverse assembly of stakeholders would contribute to the formulation of comprehensive and effective solutions, ultimately bringing an end to the protracted crises in Plateau State. : Plateau Security: Chief of Defence Staff Fact-Finding Team Unveils Strategy for Peace

In a significant move to address the prolonged security crisis in Plateau State, Major General Agundu, leading a fact-finding team as the Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized unity, denouncement of criminal activities, and the importance of honesty in achieving lasting peace. The call for conciliatory language from political leaders was underscored as a crucial element in the pursuit of harmony. The fact-finding team engaged with key stakeholders who unanimously expressed the urgent need to strengthen the judicial system. A special court, they insisted, would expedite justice delivery and serve as a deterrent to potential criminals.

Moreover, the stakeholders stressed the importance of integrating followers from both Islamic and Christian religions in the peace-building process. Deeply concerned about isolated killings, they called upon the Plateau government to mediate between warring factions using a comprehensive approach that considers the perspectives of all involved parties. The stakeholders strongly condemned the influx of sophisticated weapons and urged the government to take immediate action to prevent such arms from entering the state through identified channels.

Religious Leaders Condemn Profiling and Advocate Local Solutions

Reverend Father Polycap Lubo, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria Plateau State chapter, and Alhaji Dr Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, Chairman of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam Plateau State chapter, added their voices to the discourse. They vehemently condemned religious profiling and the stereotyping of any ethnic group as criminals. These religious leaders stressed individual determination in ending the crisis and recommended enhancing traditional institutions to address security concerns within local domains. Emphasizing the need to apprehend individuals perpetuating the ongoing conflict, they urged the authorities to take decisive action.

Fact-Finding Team’s Successful Visits and Ongoing Challenges

The fact-finding team successfully visited the Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi local government areas, as well as the headquarters of security agencies in the state. Engaging with critical stakeholders, the team gathered valuable insights into the challenges faced by the communities affected by recent attacks. While progress has been made in understanding the complexities of the crisis, ongoing challenges persist. The effectiveness of the proposed strategies and the government’s response to implement them will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of security and peace in Plateau State