Military moves Plateau headquarters after killings

In response to escalating violence and deadly attacks, the Nigerian military has relocated the tactical headquarters of Operation Enduring Peace from Jos, the capital of Plateau State, to Mangu Local Government Area. This strategic shift aims to enhance the security forces' ability to respond effectively to ongoing threats in Mangu and its neighboring communities, where recent violence has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement.

Williams Dangana, Commander of Operation Safe Haven and General Officer Commanding of the 3 Division, Nigerian Army, announced the relocation, emphasizing that establishing a physical presence in Mangu will allow military leadership direct, real-time assessment of the security situation. This proximity is intended to ensure more timely and effective tactical responses to emerging threats.

The relocation is bolstered by the deployment of additional troops, equipment, and logistics, approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Waidi Shaibu. "My being here is not just in person. I’m here with enablers, additional manpower and all the resources required to execute this mandate," Dangana stated, underscoring the commitment to addressing the security challenges.

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Establishing a physical presence in Mangu will enable leadership to maintain direct, real-time assessment of the security situation and ensure timely tactical responses.

This decision follows a series of recent deadly attacks, including one on the Bin Mper community in Mangu. Residents reported that gunmen attacked the community between August 17 and 18, resulting in numerous casualties, injuries, and missing persons. While initial casualty figures varied, Amnesty International later reported 24 deaths, describing the incident as one of the deadliest recent attacks in the state and calling for an investigation into security lapses.

The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the attack and stated that the Commissioner of Police visited the affected community, conveying condolences and assuring residents that perpetrators would be brought to justice. Security has been heightened in the area, and residents are urged to provide information to aid the investigation. The military has also initiated "Operation Hard Nut" to further combat the unrest.

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My being here is not just in person. I’m here with enablers, additional manpower and all the resources required to execute this mandate.