OPSH sets up implementation panel for Plateau peace masterplan

Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) has set up an implementation committee for its peace masterplan in Plateau State.

Worried by the incessant attacks and killings in Bassa, Jos North and South local councils of Plateau State, OPSH had set up a 36-man committee to interface with the affected communities for permanent peace in the state.

The committee, though saddled with a very demanding and all-encompassing task, worked assiduously and submitted its report on October 21, 2021.

Commander of OPSH, Maj-Gen. Ibrahim Ali, later dropped 10 of the 36 members and set up 26-man joint committee to implement the recommendations for peace in the various ethnic groups in the areas.

The implementation committee was given March 31, 2022 to submit its report to the commander for scrutiny.

His words: “The report of the committee contains carefully fashioned out modalities that, if thoroughly implemented, would assist Plateau State, OPSH and other security agencies in achieving lasting peace on the Plateau. As difficult as it was to come up with the well-articulated report, it is envisaged that the implementation of the recommendations would be a more daunting task.

“Implementation would require total dedication, commitment and sacrifice from all the parties and stakeholders to achieve the much-desired peace.”

During the submission of the report, I assured you that we would work with think-tanks, consultants and all critical stakeholders mentioned herein to chart a new narrative that will help address the lingering issues on the Plateau.”

According to the commander, former High Court Judge of Plateau, Justice Longji Daniel, will chair the committee, while the state government nominated Messrs John Lazing and Dat Mbang as secretaries.

Other members were drawn from the various ethnicities in Bassa, Jos North and Jos South and four representatives of OPSH.

“I have no doubt that they will be meticulous, accountable and deliver excellent results,” he enthused.

The commander, therefore, urged them to be impartial, honest, upright and do away with compromise and sentiments in the discharge of the enormous task.

He added: “The committee is saddled with the responsibility to come up with strategies, timelines and commence implementation of the recommendations of the 36-man committee’s report. This is with a view to addressing the perceived resentments leading to continuous violent attacks in the identified communities. It is hoped that the outcome of this committee will contribute immensely to the peace-building efforts in the targeted communities to return Plateau to the path of peace and sustainable development.”