Defence Minister visits Plateau, reaffirms FG’s commitment to ending violence

By Kunle Sanni

The Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, on Saturday visited Bassa Local Government Area in Plateau State to commiserate with victims of recent attacks and reinforce the federal government’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.

The visit comes just days after renewed violence claimed several lives and left many injured in the area. Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, the Minister was received by Major General Folusho Oyelola, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Safe Haven.

While addressing affected families and community members, Badaru offered prayers for the victims and stressed the urgent need to break the cycle of violence in Plateau State.

The Defence Minister conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s concern over the killings, stating that the President had directed security agencies to ensure those behind the attacks are apprehended and prosecuted.

“Mr. President is deeply concerned about the security challenges in Plateau State and has directed us to ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous acts are apprehended and brought to justice. The GOC and other security agencies have committed to this mission and assured me that no effort will be spared,” Badaru said.

He also emphasized the importance of collaboration with state authorities and local communities to strengthen preventive security measures.

“We are working closely with the state government to implement structures that will help mitigate such incidents,” he added.

Calling for community involvement, the Minister urged local leaders to support intelligence-gathering efforts, which he described as vital to identifying the perpetrators and addressing the root causes of the violence.