By; BUHARI B. BELLO, Jos
In an effort to end the repeated crisis that has claimed several, Operation SAFE HAVEN has organised a cultural competition termed “Maj Gen Ibrahim Ali Peace and Unity Cultural Competition” to promote peace and unity among the diverse ethnic groups on the Plateau.
The maiden event which was held in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State featured dancing and eating competitions by 12 different cultural groups.
Speaking at the event, the Special Guest of Honour, Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali, charged the law abiding and peace loving people of Plateau state to utilise their rich cultural heritage to promote unity for peaceful co-existence among the diverse ethnic groups in the state
. The Commander observed that the cultural diversity of the people is a great source of strength to the State and the nation. Therefore, it should be harnessed for peace and progress.
The Commander who spoke through the Chief of Staff Operation SAFE HAVEN, Brigadier General Amos Egbejule, noted that there is no alternative to peace and the beauty of peace is when people come together to celebrate their beautiful cultural diversity together. He urged the people to cooperate with the security agencies for the maintenance of security in their communities.
Speaking earlier, the Commander Sector 4 Barikin Ladi Colonel Murtala Abdulsalam thanked the various ethnic groups for turning out en mass to participate in the event.
He stated that Operation SAFE HAVEN will not relent in its effort of sustaining peace in the area. He further charged the people to shun all forms of violence, mischief and live together as brothers and sisters.
He informed the participants and guests that the cultural competition was organised as part of Operation SAFE HAVEN non-kinetic measures towards sustaining the peace process in its Joint Area of Operation.
In their separate remarks, the Chairman, Barikin Ladi LGA, Hon Jack Alamba, the Hon Member Representing Barikin Ladi/Riyom LGAs in the National Assembly, Hon Simon Mwadkwon, the Da Gwom Rwei Barikin Ladi HRH, Da Edward Gyang Bot as well as religious leaders agreed to work together to sustain the peace and security in the LGA
. They charged the people to fight the enemies of peace and support the security agencies who are working tirelessly to ensure peace continue to reign on the Plateau.
Aside the cultural dance and eating competitions, the event also featured women race and Tug-of-War. Prizes were presented to winners of the competition as well as best Vigilante, hunter, neighbourhood watch, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and most peaceful communities in the Local Government.
