The Plateau Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has promised to support the military to curb all forms of insecurity in the state.
Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, the state Chairman of the association, said this when Maj.-Gen. Dominic Onyemelu, the Commander of Special Task Force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), visited him on Thursday in Jos.
Lubo, who thanked the commander for the visit, urged him to ensure the safety of residents of the state, particularly rural farmers.
He said the association, under his leadership has done a lot in sensitising the people on peaceful coexistence, and assured that it would support the commander to succeed in his assignment.
“We are happy to have you here and I want to tell you that your coming to Plateau is divine.
“I want to plead with you to ensure the safety of farmers and their crops to avert impending food scarcity.
“This has been a major challenge in this state, but we believe you will deploy your vast military knowledge to ensure farmers and their farms are secured.
“I want to assure you that as a Christian body, we will support you 100 per cent to curb all forms of insecurity in this state,” he said.
Speaking earlier, Onyemelu, said his visit was to acquaint himself with the association and seek its cooperation and support to curb insecurity in the state.
Onyemelu, who assumed duty as the 13th commander of the operation on March 11, also said the visit was to ask the Christian body to pray for him in order to succeed in his assignment.
He explained that the operation would continue to use both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in addressing the security challenges in the state.
He called on religious leaders in the state to sensitise their members, particularly youths, against violence and other vices.
“I urge you Christian and religious leaders to sensitise your followers, especially the young ones to stay away from violence and embrace peace.
“Educate them on the danger of consumption of illicit drugs. That way, they will stay away from violence,” he said.
Onyemelu also called on the residents to support the military and other security agencies in efforts to curb insecurity in the state.