The Nigerian Army has launched a new military operation in Plateau state, code-named Operation Hakorin Damisa IV (translated Leopard’s Teeth).
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the operation, launched on Saturday by the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, aims to end the spate of attacks and killings in the state.
In the last two months, more than 300 people have been killed in Plateau state following a series of attacks by gunmen.
Speaking at the launch of the operation in Mangu Local Government Area, Major General Lagbaja said that the Nigerian Army was committed to restoring peace to the state.
Recall that the House of Representatives had called on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to declare a national emergency in Plateau State following incessant attacks by terrorists.
The House made the call on July 11, 2023, following a motion of urgent public importance on the need for urgent intervention in the killings in some local government areas in the state.
The motion was moved by Dachung Bagos, a member of the House representing Jos South/North Federal Constituency.
Bagos said that the recent attacks on the communities had resulted in the killing of over 300 individuals, significant injuries to others, the destruction of property, and the displacement of nearly 18,000 people.
He also raised concern about the ongoing attacks by terrorist groups in the state, claiming that if not addressed soon, it would result in low agricultural produce.
The House further requested that Operation Safe Haven should identify and evacuate all cells used by bandits in the state.
The House mandated the Committees on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, Defence, Army, Air Force, Police, and Legislative Compliance (when created) to oversee compliance and report monthly until the situation was brought under control.
The House also requested that security personnel should give aerial observation and assistance in capturing the terrorists and destroying their camps in order to prevent attacks and allow innocent farmers to return to their lands and ancestral homes.
