The North-Central Peace Advocates have voiced serious alarm over what they perceive as a growing invasion of terrorists and criminal groups into Benue and Plateau States.
According to the group, this disturbing trend poses a grave threat to the peace, security, and socio-economic progress of the North-Central region.
During a Peace and Development Rally held over the weekend in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, the President of the group, Adamu Loko, emphasized that the recurring wave of violence in the region is not coincidental but the work of “agents of destabilisation” determined to plunge the area into crisis.
“We are alarmed by the growing presence of terrorists and criminals in our communities,” Loko said. “The recent attacks in Benue and Plateau States are not isolated incidents. They are clearly coordinated efforts aimed at destabilising our region.”
Loko expressed concern that agriculture—the backbone of the region’s economy and mainstay of the people’s livelihood—is being severely disrupted by the violence. He stressed that without peace, there can be no meaningful development, warning that insecurity threatens to push many communities into economic ruin.
He called on the military and other security agencies to intensify efforts in apprehending the perpetrators of the ongoing violence. “There can be no peace unless those responsible for these attacks are brought to justice,” he declared.
The rally, which attracted people from various communities and civil society organisations across the North-Central zone, served as a platform to promote harmony and peaceful coexistence. Loko noted that the group plans to carry its peace campaign across all states in the region, continuously engaging local communities in dialogue and sensitisation efforts.
He also praised the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for his proactive response to the crisis, describing him as a patriot and urging Nigerians to fully support the Armed Forces and other security outfits. “Our troops are doing their best under difficult circumstances. We must rally behind them and ensure we defeat the enemies of peace,” Loko said.
A representative of the transport union, Saleh Mohammed, also addressed the rally. He lauded the initiative of the North-Central Peace Advocates, offered prayers for lasting peace across the country, and commended the resilience and sacrifice of the Armed Forces amid growing security challenges.
Reaffirming their resolve, the North-Central Peace Advocates pledged to continue their peace campaign until violence and insecurity are completely eradicated from the region.