The Joint Military Force (JTF) codenamed Operations Enduring Peace has launched a strategic community unification initiative centred on agricultural support, aiming to heal deep-seated divisions following the tragic Angwan Rukuba killings.
Deploying the efforts, the military announced the distribution of fertilisers to stakeholders across all communal divides in Jos North, Jos East and Bassa Local Government Areas, signalling a shift toward non-kinetic intervention to foster harmony as the new farming season begins.
Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the Commander of Operation Enduring Peace and GOC 3 Division Nigerian Army, emphasised that the gesture is more than just agricultural aid, saying the strategic necessity is designed to bridge the gap between ethnic and religious groups.
Speaking through Brigadier General Mohammed Sule, the commander noted that the Chief of Defence Staff specifically approved the distribution to encourage productivity and communal cooperation.
He said the initiative arrives at a critical time for the region, which has struggled to regain its footing after the violence that recently rocked the Agwan Rukuba area.
In his remarks, however, the chairman of the Jos North Local Government Area, Barr. John Christopher lauded the military’s proactive stance in the wake of past unrest.
He said the JTF has demonstrated tireless efforts in restoring stability after the unfortunate Angwan Rukuba killings, expressing deep appreciation for the fertiliser palliatives, noting that the council remains committed to working alongside the military to consolidate the peace that has been hard-won over recent months.
Confirming significant gains achieved by the JTF in containing the Jos North killings, the military said several individuals suspected of orchestrating and participating in the Angwan Rukuba killings have been successfully apprehended.
These suspects are currently facing trial in court, a development that stakeholders believe provides a necessary sense of accountability and closure for the grieving community, our correspondent reports.
However, in ensuring that the fragile peace remains undisturbed during the planting season, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, deployed an elite Special Forces unit known as the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion to Plateau State several weeks back, several news outlets had reported.
The deployment aims to contain emerging threats such as farm destruction and cattle rustling, which have historically triggered reprisal attacks, our correspondent said.
The JTF, however, remains firm that while kinetic operations will continue against criminal hideouts, lasting stability depends on the sincerity of the local people.
While responding to the palliative gesture of the JTF, community leaders from both Christians and Muslims united in praise for the distribution exercise, pledging to uphold a community-driven code of conduct.
They pledged to sensitise youths against provocative actions, viewing the military’s neutral role and the provision of farming inputs as a vital olive branch that marks a new chapter in their communities.
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