Military commander donates relief items to victims of Plateau violence

Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim Ali, Commander, Special Task Force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) in Plateau, has donated relief items to victims of attacks in some communities of Bassa, Riyom and Jos North Local governments.

Presenting the items to the victims on Monday, Ali said the gesture was part of civil/military relations, adding that it would boost the people’s confidence in the military.

Ali, who is also the General  Officer Commanding  (GOC) three  Division of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba, near Jos, said the gesture would also cushion the hardship  faced by the victims.

“We are here to  know  how you are faring. We are aware of the recent attacks here and we know the hardship you face. So, we have come to identify with you and present these few items.

“The items may not be enough, but it is in  solidarity and with love,” he said.

Ali further advised residents of the communities to live in peace, insisting that no society progressed without peace, urging them to shun ethnic and religious sentiments.

He urged the people to be law abiding at all times and  not to take laws into their hands.

“Do not take laws into your hands; report threats to security agencies and shun  reprisals.

“Support the military and other security agencies to bring lasting peace to our land,” he advised.

At Rafiki area of Jos North local government area, a Fulani dominated community, the commander also advised them to  continue to live in peace with their neighbours.

The commander also  visited troops in different locations within Bassa and Riyom to encourage and boost their morale.

The relief materials were distributed to victims in Jebbu Miango in Bassa, Tanborong and Byei in Riyom and Rikifi communities in Jos North.

Among the items were rice, salt, cartons of seasoning, noodles, sleeping mats, blankets, bathing and washing soaps, among others.