The group, North-Central Peace Advocates has raised the alarm over what they described as the growing infiltration of terrorists and criminal elements into Benue and Plateau States, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to peace, security, and development in the region.
Speaking during a Peace and Development rally held in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, during the weekend, the President of the group, Adamu Loko, said the recent spate of killings in the region is the handiwork of “agents of destabilisation” who are bent on plunging the area into chaos.
“We are worried about the infiltration of terrorists and criminals into our communities. The attacks in Benue and Plateau are not isolated; they are part of a larger agenda to destabilise the region,” Loko said.
He lamented that agriculture, the primary source of livelihood for the people, is being crippled by persistent violence, adding that the region cannot experience development without peace.
Loko called on the security agencies, especially the Armed Forces, to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of the killings, stressing that “peace will only come when those behind the violence are arrested and brought to book.”
The rally, which drew participants from various communities and interest groups, aimed to promote peaceful coexistence across the North-Central zone. Loko said the group would continue to move from state to state, engaging residents and preaching peace.
He commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, for his courageous stance on the crisis and described him as a true patriot. He also urged Nigerians to support the military and other security agencies in their efforts to restore normalcy.
“Our troops have been doing their best. We must support them. This rally is not just about awareness; it is about standing up for our region and ensuring that the enemies of peace do not prevail,” Loko added.
Also speaking at the event, a representative of the transport union, Saleh Mohammed, praised the Peace Advocates for the initiative and called for national unity.
He offered prayers for lasting peace across the country and applauded the Armed Forces for their resilience and sacrifices in the face of daunting challenges.
The North-Central Peace Advocates reiterated their commitment to sustaining the peace campaign until violence is rooted out of the region.
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