In a decisive move to curb rising insecurity, the Plateau State House of Assembly has pledged to deepen collaboration with the Nigerian Army following renewed attacks in parts of the state.
Led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, lawmakers of the 10th Assembly paid a strategic visit to the Headquarters of the 3 Armoured Division, Rukuba Barracks, on Thursday, where they met with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Major General Folunsho Oyinlola.
The visit followed a resolution passed during plenary on Wednesday, July 16, after Hon. Dachung Danyam Musa of Riyom Constituency raised a motion of urgent public importance over recent killings in Bindi and Tahoss communities.
During the visit, Speaker Gapyil said the Assembly is committed to working closely with the military to evolve sustainable approaches to end violence and restore peace in conflict-prone areas.
“We are here to build synergy, enhance communication, and support the Nigerian Army in the collective mission to secure our communities. The House is ready to back security efforts through legislation, oversight, and advocacy,” Gapyil stated.
He applauded the army’s efforts under challenging circumstances and announced the creation of a standing House committee to maintain regular engagement with Operation Safe Haven and other security agencies.
In his remarks, Major General Oyinlola welcomed the lawmakers and underscored the army’s professional and impartial stance in managing the state’s security challenges. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by troops in Bindi and Tahoss, where assailants launched simultaneous attacks from multiple directions, complicating the military’s response.
Despite the challenges, the GOC reassured the Assembly of the army’s determination to protect lives and property. He also called on lawmakers to play a greater role in community peacebuilding by engaging local leaders, youth, and vigilante groups.
“The Armed Forces are committed to your safety. But security cannot be achieved by force alone—it requires the involvement and trust of the people,” Oyinlola said.
The visit is seen as a pivotal step in strengthening civil-military relations as the state grapples with recurring violence. It also reflects the legislature’s resolve to take a hands-on approach to addressing insecurity through strategic partnerships.
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