Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the Minister of Defence has expressed deep regrets on the farmer-herder clashes that is escalating despite the efforts of the government and security agencies to prevent it.
It was on Sunday during a reconciliatory meeting with the opinion leaders, traditional rulers and religious leaders from Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Mangu and Riyom local government areas of the state, at the Maxwell Khobe cantonment, 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Jos that the Minister made this statement.
He emphasized that the Federal Government was not happy with the way some people wants to disrupt the current farming season.
“The Federal Government will not entertain such demand capable of causing division and disaffection among Nigerians. Therefore living together is not an option but an obligation. This is evident in Mr President’s firm resolve to fight any secessionist agenda in any part of the country.
“The aim of this gathering is to interact with critical stakeholders in the state to fashion out modalities to address the latest security concerns, the increasing spate of farm destruction and cattle rustling that culminated in the recent attacks and reprisals in some parts of this state.
“My presence here today (Sunday) is to fulfill my mandate as the Minister of Defence charged with the responsibility for the protection of our National territory both from external and internal aggressions. Therefore, I would not relent until the Federal Government of Nigerian and the Ministry of Defence deploy all assets to ensure our people sleep with their two eyes closed.
“These killings kept recurring despite the best effort of our security agencies on the Plateau; especially 3 Division/OPSH to ensure amicable settlements during any incidents involving attacks on cattle or farm destruction as well as cattle rustling.”
He encouraged the people to love each other to aid in the growth of the economic system.
