Jos -The Special Task Force (STF) maintaining
peace in Plateau has said that the evacuation order given to some communities in
Barkin Ladi and Riyom local governments is based on `military necessity’.
The STF on Saturday ordered the inhabitants of
five villages – Mahanga, Kakuruk, Kuzen, Maseh and Shong 2 to vacate their
settlements in 48 hours, to give way for a “military operation’’.
The residents have given different
interpretations to the order, with some alleging, that some specific groups
were being targeted.
But STF Commander, Maj.-Gen. Henry Ayoola,
told newsmen in Jos on Sunday that the order to vacate the areas was “in line
with international humanitarian laws and consistent with best global
practices’’.
“It should not be construed otherwise. The
villages are not inhabited by one tribe; no one should see our action as
targeted against any particular group.
“We are an unbiased umpire in charge of
maintaining peace and ensuring security of lives and property. We are not
interested in the politics of the state and nobody should see us a favouring
any group.’’
Ayoola said the STF was already aware that all
the villages were deserted following the recent attacks in the area.
“This notice is for the few people that are
within the theatre of operation. The operation is expected to be swift and once
the area is declared safe, the residents would return to their homes.’’
He expressed regret for the inconveniences
caused by the decision, adding that the state government had put in place some
relief arrangements.
Ayoola, however, advised the residents of
Kura-falls, Kuzuk and Sharuk, Rim of Gashish and Bachit not to panic as they
were not affected by the order.
“But they must be careful and conscious of any
movement in their localities,’’ he said.
The Commander called on Plateau residents to
report any suspicious movement and activities in their areas to STF and other
security agencies for prompt action.
Meanwhile, Ayoola has explained that last
night’s attack on some persons at Gyero in Jos South Local Government was an
armed robbery case.
“One person was killed in that robbery
incident and our men moved swiftly to the area immediately they were alerted,’’
he said. (NAN)
Vanguard
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please do not hesitate to leave your opinion in the comment section below.