The Plateau State House of Assembly has pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Nigerian Army in a renewed effort to tackle recurring insecurity in troubled communities across the state.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, led members of the 10th Assembly on a strategic visit to the Headquarters of the 3 Armoured Division, Rukuba Barracks, where they held discussions with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Major General Folunsho Oyinlola.
The visit followed a resolution during plenary on Wednesday, July 16, after Hon. Dachung Danyam Musa, representing Riyom Constituency, moved a motion of urgent public importance over fresh attacks in Bindi and Tahoss communities.
Speaking during the engagement, the Speaker said the Assembly’s goal was to work directly with the military leadership to jointly develop sustainable strategies to end the spate of violence and killings in flashpoint areas.
“We are here to listen, engage, and foster mutual understanding towards restoring peace in our communities. Security is a collective responsibility, and the House is committed to supporting our security agencies legislatively and through advocacy,” Gapyil stated.
He commended the Nigerian Army for its efforts in combating insecurity and disclosed that the Assembly has established a standing committee to interface regularly with Operation Safe Haven and other security stakeholders.
In his remarks, Major General Oyinlola welcomed the lawmakers and reaffirmed the neutrality and professionalism of the military in handling security threats.
The GOC recounted the challenges faced by troops during the recent attacks in Bindi and Tahoss, noting that multiple fronts of assault by assailants made the operation complex. Nonetheless, he assured the Assembly of the army’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.
He further called for broader community involvement in peacebuilding, urging lawmakers to deepen engagement with local leaders, youth groups, and vigilante networks to strengthen grassroots security.
“The Armed Forces belong to the people. We are committed to your safety, but we need cooperation, understanding, and collective action to succeed,” Oyinlola emphasized.
The visit marks a significant step in bridging civil-military relations in Plateau State as the Assembly intensifies efforts to restore trust, security, and peace in communities plagued by violence.