Troops in Plateau State have announced the discovery of the body of a Fulani leader, Adamu Gabdo, in the Panyam district of Mangu Local Government Area. Gabdo had been reported missing on Sunday, September 24, 2023, with initial news suggesting he was killed on Friday, September 22.
However, the police later stated that their reports indicated he was only missing and not deceased after leaving Bauchi State to visit friends and relatives in Plateau State.
Since then, Gabdo’s disappearance has heightened tension in Mangu and the neighboring areas.
Nonetheless, a statement released by the military taskforce responsible for maintaining peace in Plateau State confirmed on Thursday that Gabdo’s remains were recovered in Bauchi State following a special operation.
The statement signed by a media officer of the military taskforce media, Captain Oya James, said “Following a Special Forces Tracking Operations conducted by troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN based on credible intelligence from well-meaning locals, the remains of the Missing Fulani leader, Ardo Adamu Idris Gabdo, the Ardo Panyam have been discovered and recovered for burial.
“The troops conducted the operations in the early hours of today, 5 October 2033 and were able to identify and recover the remains of the body of the missing Ardo around Boi along Pankshin – Bauchi Road in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State. The body has since been handed over to the family for proper burial.
“This breakthrough was made possible through the continued community engagements employed by OPSH. This remained key to the search operations, as troops worked closely with community leaders and critical stakeholders as well as family members of Ardo Adamu Gabdo to gather vital information and coordinate the search efforts. The steadfast collaboration between the leadership of Operation SAFE HAVEN and the communities also demonstrates the commitment and determination of both parties to ensure justice is served on the perpetrators.
It read further, “Consequently, the recovery of Ardo Adamu Idris Gabdo’s remains marks a significant step forward in unravelling the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. The investigation will now proceed with renewed vigor to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime and quickly bring them to justice as directed by the Chief of Army Staff. OPSH will continue to work tirelessly and stop at nothing to bring the perpetrators of all evil acts to justice and ensure the security of lives and property on the Plateau especially and the entire Joint Operations Area.
“The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General AE Abubakar while commending the special operation wishes to extend his heartfelt condolence to the family and loved ones of Ardo Adamu Idris Gabdo during this difficult time. He urges the general public to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and provide any relevant information that may assist in the ongoing investigations. He further enjoined law-abiding citizens to join hands together to create a safe and secure environment for all residents devoid of criminal elements as he assured that justice will be served on anybody found culpable.”
