The Special Task Force Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) has launched a new 17-member Peace Committee to implement strategies for lasting peace in Irigwe Land and the wider Bassa Local Government Area (LGA) and surrounding regions, on Wednesday.
Operation SAFE HAVEN has been actively seeking lasting solutions to the ongoing crisis characterized by attacks and reprisals in Plateau State.
Previously, on September 11, 2021, OPSH established a 36-member Joint Committee to develop peace and reconciliation strategies among various tribes in Bassa, Jos North and South, and Riyom LGAs in Plateau State.
To further these peace-building efforts in Irigwe Land, the Mbra Ngwe of Irigwe Land inaugurated a 17-member Implementation Committee to carry out the recommendations of the 36-member Committee.
During the inauguration at Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army (NA), Major General AE Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, urged committee members to remain impartial in their duties, ensuring no bias among the involved parties.
He assured the operation’s commitment to continue collaborating with other security agencies to advance the peace agenda of the Plateau State Government.
He also tasked the committee with implementing the recommendations within three months to promote peaceful coexistence in the area.
In their remarks, Mr. Asuhik Adik, representing the Transition Implementation Committee Chairman of Bassa LGA, and Mr. Elkanah Izam, representing the Director-General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency, advised the committee to avoid tribalism during their work.
They emphasized that the committee’s formation has strengthened civil-military relations, facilitating a rapid response to communal conflicts and minor security challenges.
Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Ephraim Usman, stated that forming the committee is a positive step towards advancing the state government’s peace process.
He encouraged the committee members to work together harmoniously to achieve their objectives and pledged continuous government support for Operation SAFE HAVEN and its initiatives.
