Joint Task Force Vows to Restore Peace in Benue

The Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (JTF-OPWS), has pledged to restore peace and security across conflict-affected communities in Benue State.

The assurance was given by the Commander of JTF-OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, during an operational tour of key locations under the task force’s responsibility. The statement was released on Tuesday by the Acting Media Operations Officer, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, on behalf of the headquarters in Makurdi.

General Gara urged troops to remain vigilant, maintain high morale, and adhere to strict professional standards. He emphasized that the task force was deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to tackle the criminal elements threatening peace in the region.

He highlighted the importance of discipline, resilience, and unwavering commitment in ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations, stressing that the Armed Forces would not rest until full peace and normalcy are restored.

“All perpetrators of violence will be identified, isolated, and prosecuted in accordance with the law and military justice procedures. The era of impunity is over,” he stated.

The Commander reaffirmed the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property and declared that no criminal would escape justice.

During the tour, he assessed troop morale, operational readiness, and logistics capacity. He also engaged with field commanders to review current intelligence and progress of clearance operations aimed at flushing out armed militias, bandits, and other non-state actors.

Locations visited included Naka, Gwer West, Otukpo, Agatu, and Apa Local Government Areas of Benue State.