There Are Traces Of Bandits In Bauchi, Plateau, Taraba States – GOC 3 Div. Says
BY ADEYEMI AKANJI, BAUCHI – The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Jos, Major General Ibrahim Salau Aliyu has raised the alarm that there are traces of bandits around the three states of Bauchi, Plateau and Taraba which make up the area of operational coverage of the Division.
General Aliyu, who is also the Commander, Operation Safe Haven, raised the alarm when he paid a courtesy visit on the Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State on Friday.
He said; “The issue of cooperation is key in security matters. Nobody can do it alone these days because security is a whole government approach. We really appreciate the support you have given us and we want to solicit for more support to enable us achieve our aims.
“I also want to mention the need for speedy resolution of the land disputes between the Brigade and the communities of Guru, Shadawanka, Kundan and others. Last year I commissioned a block of classrooms at Kobi Primary School, it is part of our community service and relationships.
“I will like to mention that recently we are having traces of bandits around Plateau, Taraba and Bauchi States. I want to intimate Your Excellency that we are going to be working with all the security agencies around the states to ensure that we bring peace to our people so that they can carry on with their legitimate activities for the development of the state and Nigeria in genera.
“Last year we held a competition here and you duly supported us to make it a huge success. You approved the use of the Hajj camp for us and the Deputy Governor was at the closing ceremony. We appreciate the support. Today again during the closing ceremony of our program, the SSG duly represented you. This is a great encouragement to us.
“The Brigade Commander has told me of your constant support. We are grateful for that and hope it will continue. The COAS too sends his regards for the hospitality accorded him when he visited the state recently,” he said.
Responding, Governor Bala Mohammed commended the Nigerian Army for working round the clock to keep Nigeria and Nigerians safe and urge it to do more.
The Governor stressed the need for quick resolution of the land problem between the Army and the host community, adding that there must be cordial relationship between the two bodies.
Mohammed said; “You know that the land was given several years ago during the colonial era. Now, development has caught up with the area, we cannot develop with the barracks here. We have intention of moving the barracks elsewhere but, we need your cooperation if that must be done.
“We are working together to make sure that there is peace and people have rest of mind to do their businesses. We are ready to give you all the necessary support to ensure that you succeed in your operations”.
He assured that his administration will continue to be proactive on security issues because it is the first primary responsibility of the government.
