Building Resilience Against Violent Extremism, Insurgency, and Terrorism (BRAVE-IT), a peace-promoting non-governmental organization, has issued a strong warning against the spread of misinformation and unprovoked attacks on military personnel in Plateau State.
In a statement released to journalists on June 16, 2024, Lawrence Audu, BRAVE-IT’s Director of Corporate Communications, highlighted the dangers of circulating misleading information.
Audu noted that some individuals are sharing outdated videos from other states and countries on social media, which could mislead the public and incite chaos.
“We urge Nigerians to be vigilant about the information they share. Verifying facts before dissemination is crucial to prevent unnecessary tensions that could destabilize our security,” said Audu.
BRAVE-IT also condemned the repeated unprovoked attacks on troops, particularly in Bokkos Local Government Area, where women have been incited to block military operations. “These attacks endanger our troops and must stop. We call on those responsible to cease immediately and allow our troops to perform their duties unhindered,” Audu stated.
Despite these challenges, BRAVE-IT praised the military’s efforts in Plateau State, particularly their non-kinetic operations aimed at establishing lasting peace. Audu expressed confidence in the military and urged them to continue their commendable work.
The organization specifically lauded General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, for his dynamic and visionary leadership, which has significantly curbed destabilization efforts nationwide. They also recognized the transformational leadership of Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, for enhancing the professional conduct of the Nigerian Army, which has led to improved cooperation between the military and other security agencies in Plateau State and beyond.
“We acknowledge the sacrifices of our troops and security agencies in keeping our country safe,” said Audu. “We will continue to support their efforts and promote peaceful, stable communities.”
BRAVE-IT also commended Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, for his effective handling of disputes between farmers and herders through stakeholder engagements and other non-kinetic operations, which have contributed to the relative peace in Plateau State.
The organization urged other stakeholders, including the state government, to sustain these peace initiatives, facilitate the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their homes, and address the resettlement of the Fulani community. BRAVE-IT also highlighted the need for mechanisms to prevent future clashes between farmers and herders in the state.
“We see skill acquisition as a crucial option for resettlement and rehabilitation, moving individuals from arms to skills. Unfortunately, state and federal agencies, along with NGOs, have fallen short in this area. We urge them to act decisively instead of merely complaining or filing petitions,” Audu emphasized.
BRAVE-IT also expressed gratitude to the international Christian community and partners for providing relief to IDPs, but stressed the importance of focusing on returning IDPs to their homes rather than merely offering food aid.
“We call on Nigerians to unite in building a peaceful and stable society where everyone can live without fear of violence or extremism,” concluded Audu.
