Yakubu Busari
The Commander of the Special Task Force, STF in Plateau State, Major-General Tabugbo Ude has appealed to elders especially in the Northern zone of the State to prevail on the youths to desist from engaging in criminal activities and taking laws into their hands.
He spoke on the heels of the renewed attacks and killings in the last three days in Kassa and Bisichi areas of Barkin Ladi where Fulani and Berom youths have been engaging in killing and counter-killing leaving over 8 people dead.
Addressing a gathering of religious and community leaders who were participating in a Flag-off/Training of Faith leaders to promote the fight against malaria in the State, the Commander stated that “some people are bent on fomenting trouble in the State.
He noted “Isolated killings and reprisal attacks being carried out by the youths are worrisome but we are on top of the situation. Last night we didn’t sleep, both sides are taking laws into their hands. We have drafted troops from Sectors 5 and 7 and the headquarters to prevent breakdown of law and order.”
The event was organized by the Nigerian Inter-Faith Action Association, NIFAA in collaboration with National Malaria Elimination Programme, NMEP to train Faith leaders to promote the use of long lasting insecticidal net and other malaria preventive commodities.
Speaking at the event, the President of Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor represented by Rev. Yakubu Pam and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alh. Sa’ad Abubakar represented by Emir of Kanam, Babangida Aliyu as well as the Convener, Bishop Sunday Onuaha urged Nigerians especially pregnant women and children under five years not to take chances with malaria.
Other stakeholders who also spoke at the event agreed the “malaria has no creed or religion and does not know tribe” hence they resolved to work together to stop the scourge of malaria in the state.
They all appealed to warring factions in the State to sheath their sword and give peace a chance.
