Stakeholders Commend Operation Safe Haven’s Efforts to Foster Peace in Barkin Ladi Amid Misleading Reports
BARKIN LADI, PLATEAU STATE — Community leaders and various stakeholders across Barkin Ladi Local Government Area have lauded the proactive and reconciliatory efforts of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), led by Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, for convening a vital stakeholder engagement aimed at fostering peace, unity, and harmonious coexistence in the area.
The engagement, held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, community representatives, and security officials to deliberate on escalating tensions in the area—particularly concerns surrounding the recent influx of cattle during the farming season and its implications for intercommunal relations.
While the meeting was largely described as fruitful by participants, its outcome was marred by misleading media report that misrepresented the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN. A headline that falsely claimed the Nigerian Army had raised an alarm over a “mass influx of cattle into Plateau State” and described it as a “security threat” has drawn criticism from attendees who insist that the GOC’s message was taken out of context.
In his address during the engagement, Major General Oyinlola emphasized the need for collective responsibility in maintaining peace as the farming season unfolds.
“The farming season is already ongoing, and for many families, this is a period for securing livelihood. Therefore, any disruption of farming activities now will have dire consequences for the rest of the year and beyond,” he said.
“To this end, this engagement is convened to hear from you stakeholders – to listen to your concerns, jointly develop strategies, and to reaffirm our shared commitment to peaceful coexistence.”
The GOC further explained that while the seasonal movement of cattle is not unusual, the timing and scale of recent influxes had raised genuine concerns amongst residents due to isolated incidents of farm destruction and tension between farmers and herders.
He urged the community to treat these developments as early warning signs and to act preventively to avoid escalation, reiterating the military’s neutrality and commitment to peacebuilding.
Community Reactions: A Unified Call for Cooperation
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Ishaq Isa, the representative of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) in Barkin Ladi, praised the Army’s approach.
“The General came purposely to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders. He advised us not to take the law into our hands and called for collaboration among all residents. He also raised issues such as illegal mining, drug peddling, and night grazing—which have all been banned by the state government,” Isa said.
Isa also revealed that the GOC had advised the Local Government Chairman to establish a biometric registration system to monitor the movement and residence of both citizens and migrants, in order to preempt security challenges.
However, Isa expressed concern over some community leaders’ lack of sincerity and their tendency to focus on past grievances instead of finding lasting solutions. He proposed the creation of a bylaw and peace committee comprising both farmers and herders to mediate disputes and set communal norms.
“We should sit with Fulani and farmer groups, identify their concerns, and harmonize them into rules that guide peaceful living,” he said.
Religious and Ethnic Leaders Echo Support
Reverend Luka Malak, Vice Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Barkin Ladi, described the stakeholder meeting as timely and beneficial.
“The GOC’s message was clear and balanced. The influx of cattle happens annually before the farming season. What he emphasized was vigilance and mutual respect. Farmers must farm freely, and herders must control their livestock. That message was well received,” he noted.
Rev. Malak also decried the negative narratives spread by certain media outlets, which he described as “shocking and misleading.”
“The GOC’s opening and closing remarks were consistent. If there were divergent views from the floor, they were individual opinions—not the position of the Nigerian Army,” he clarified.
Fulani Representatives Urge for Lasting Peace
Alhaji Tambari Gizo, Deputy Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Barkin Ladi, welcomed the GOC’s message and acknowledged recent security breaches, including the killings of Fulani community members.
“This engagement was a welcome initiative. The GOC addressed the need for a biometric database to monitor newcomers, which is crucial. He is a man committed to peace, and we must support him,” Gizo stated.
He emphasized that both communities—farmers and herders—have suffered losses and must work together to prevent further violence.
Youth Leaders and Sector Command Commended
Felix Yakubu, Youth Leader of Heipang, praised Major General Oyinlola’s commitment to peace, describing him as someone “dedicated to ensuring everyone goes about their lawful activities unhindered.”
Stakeholders also gave special commendation to Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Indiorhwer, the Commander of Sector 4, for his continued mediatory role in de-escalating tensions and fostering dialogue between rival groups.
Army Reiterates Commitment to Neutrality and Peace
Operation SAFE HAVEN issued a strong clarification, debunking the false media narrative that portrayed the cattle influx as a security threat. Rather, the Army stated that the GOC’s remarks were part of a broader early warning mechanism to encourage preventive measures through dialogue and cooperation.
“The dissemination of misinformation poses a serious threat to peace and stability. Operation SAFE HAVEN remains neutral and committed to engaging all stakeholders in peaceful conflict resolution. We serve as a bridge between communities and security forces to ensure continued economic and social activities,” the statement read.
Major General Oyinlola closed the meeting by calling on community members to uphold their shared responsibility for peace.
“We must not allow misinformation or old grievances to cloud our judgment. We must focus on what unites us and collaborate to secure our future.”
As Barkin Ladi steps into the heart of the farming season, community members are hopeful that the momentum generated by the stakeholder engagement will translate into sustainable peace.
Matthew Tegha reporting from Barkin Ladi, Plateau State.
