The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda, said peace and security is gradually returning to Benue State and other parts of North Central region following successes recorded by the military under Operation Whirl Stroke.
The group in a statement by Ambassador Marcus Adams Odoba, listed the successful rescue of seven kidnap victims in Ohimini Local Government Area, and the neutralisation of suspected kidnappers in Katsina-Ala, where some arms and ammunition were recovered, as some of the recorded successes.
“In Guma Local Government Area, the Special Intervention Battalion has maintained relative calm for several months, allowing more than 1,000 internally displaced persons to return home,” Ambassador Odoba stated.
He noted that additional troop deployments, improved coordination among security agencies and the planned establishment of a new military division covering Benue, Kogi and Nasarawa States, have strengthened the operational capacity of forces on the ground.
“Fewer attacks, successful rescues and the return of displaced persons are clear evidence that the security architecture is working.
“Young people across the North Central are encouraged by these developments,” Odoba stated, and expressed the belief that lasting peace in the region would open the door for development, youth empowerment and economic recovery.
The group commended President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, for securing the state.
“President Tinubu’s firm commitment to securing the North Central, combined with the professional leadership of General Olufemi Oluyede, has brought tangible relief to the people of Benue,” Ambassador Odoba stated.
He also praised the armed forces for demonstrating courage, consistency and strategic focus in protecting lives and property.
“We commend the CDS for the effective blend of kinetic operations and community engagement that has made these gains possible.
“Many families are now returning to their ancestral homes because of this collaborative approach,” he noted.
