‘You cannot distract us’ – OPSH responds to Southern Kaduna protest

The Special Military Task Force code named Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), has reiterated its commitment in sticking to its mandate of dislodging hoodlums and criminal elements within its area of operation.

The taskforce which operates inline with its rule of engagement, said the Military cannot be biased in discharging its duty to ensure that communities under its watch remain peaceful.

The OPSH was responding to the story credited to Southern Kaduna Christian Youths in Zango Kataf which alleged compromise by the activities of the OPSH in maintaining peace and order within the said general area.

Speaking in a rejoinder sent to our correspondent, Spokesman of the taskforce, Captain James Oya said rather than the community giving credit to the OPSH for protecting lives and properties in the general area for years, they have resorted to blackmail and cheap propaganda.

According to the Spokesman: “The story in its entirety was created to distract the military from carrying out its duties of protecting lives and property. However, as a committed institution, the military cannot be distracted from its constitutional roles.

“The OPSH is shocked that a cleric who should epitomize leadership and good example in all sense could maliciously accuse the military of compromise, when it is glaring that the military has subdued the rate of attacks in the Southern Kaduna area of Kaduna State”.

The taskforce said the operation has continued to show professionalism in conducting its operations, which has led to the arrest and neutralisation of many criminal elements operating in Southern Kaduna.

“Despite this unfounded allegation, we shall not relent in deploying all available military machinery to tackle insecurity in Zango Kataf and other troubled communities”, Oya said.

He continued: “As a noble institution, OPSH is neutral and would not compromise its constitutional roles under any guise. It is therefore important that the general public disregard the false allegation and continue to support OPSH with necessary information needed to deal effectively with the security concerns in Southern Kaduna”.

Our correspondent reports that the OPSH is responsible for maintaining peace in Plateau, Southern Kaduna and some parts of Bauchi State.