Troops pledge proactive response to security threats in coverage states

Theatre Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, OWS, Major General Kelvin Aligbe has pledged the commitment of the security formation to proactive response to security threats in states under its coverage.

General Aligbe made the pledge today at the OWS headquarters in Makurdi when he received the leadership of the three major socio-cultural organisations and select council chairmen led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on security matters, retired Colonel Paul Hembah on a courtesy visit.

He stated that the job of the OWS is to protect lives and property in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States which fall under its coverage and pledged that they will discharge their responsibilities professionally and with the fear of God alone.

According to him, the formation under his leadership had already initiated patrols and spot checks at points in and out of Benue, stressing that when there is danger, they will respond proactively.

He said he had since on assumption of duty on 23rd October, 2021, met with critical stakeholders including Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, MACBAN, Nasarawa State chapter, Commander Livestock Guards and today, with major stakeholders with a view to ensuring peaceful coexistence.

Major General Aligbe said operations of the OWS will be intelligent-led and urged farmers who have challenges accessing their farms to inform the nearest unit of the formation to give them cover to their farms pending when peace is finally restored.

While commending stakeholders who supported his predecessors towards promoting peaceful coexistence, the theatre commander sued for collective approach in finding lasting solution to the insecurity in Benue and other states under its coverage.

A letter to the Theatre Commander OWS by the delegation, read by the Executive Chairman of Ukum Local Government Area, Hon Steven Ayua said 1,773 deaths have been accounted for since the invasion of Benue communities by herdsmen seven years ago.

The letter explained that activities of militia herdsmen escalate during dry season thereby posing a major security threat, adding that the visit was a renewed call for OWS to intensify their operations and save the people from the marauding herders.