By Ebenezer Mabinuola
The 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have strongly refuted claims circulating in some online media platforms that misrepresented comments made by Major General EF Oyinlola during a recent stakeholders’ engagement in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Nigerian Army denounced the headline, “Nigerian Army Raises Alarm over Mass Influx of Cattle into Plateau State: Warns of Security Threats,” describing it as a deliberate distortion of facts. The statement clarified that no such alarm was raised, and that the General’s remarks were taken out of context.
Major General Oyinlola, who also serves as the Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, had addressed the community on May 6, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and unity in the face of changing dynamics within the region—particularly the rising tensions stemming from increased cattle movement into farming areas.
His actual comments, according to the Army’s official release, highlighted a growing concern over the scale and timing of livestock influx during an ongoing farming season. The concern, the Army said, was raised not to incite fear but to promote dialogue and forestall avoidable tensions.
“We cannot afford to ignore these early warning signs,” Oyinlola was quoted as saying. “We must act together to ensure Barkin Ladi does not slide into avoidable conflicts. This engagement is convened to hear from you stakeholders—to listen to your concerns, jointly develop strategies, and to reaffirm our shared commitment to peaceful coexistence.”
The Army emphasized that the General’s statements were rooted in a spirit of proactive peacebuilding, not alarmism. The focus of the engagement, the statement reiterated, was on fostering collaboration between herders and farmers to protect food security, sustain economic stability, and reinforce social cohesion.
Operation SAFE HAVEN further reaffirmed its neutrality and its ongoing commitment to inclusive, community-driven conflict resolution. It called on media organizations to avoid sensationalism and ensure their reporting reflects the intent and context of public statements accurately.
“Disseminating misleading information, especially in a region working hard to rebuild peace, threatens the very stability we strive to protect,” said Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer for OPSH.
The Army assured residents of continued support for peaceful agricultural activities and emphasized its readiness to work hand-in-hand with all community leaders in ensuring Plateau State remains on the path of recovery and lasting peace.
