Troops conduct show of force, mediate farmers-herders conflict in Gwagwalada
By: Zagazola Makama
In a renewed effort to stem the tide of banditry, kidnapping and communal conflict in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Nigerian Army in collaboration with other security agencies has embarked on a show of force and conducted a key leadership engagement to avert a looming farmers-herders crisis in Paikon-Kore community of Gwagwalada Area Council.
Zagazola Makama was informed by intelligence sources that the coordinated operation, was part of confidence-building efforts aimed at restoring peace and reassuring residents of the government’s commitment to their safety and wellbeing.
The exercise was led by a senior military commander and comprised troops of the Nigerian Army, personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The joint security patrol team covered critical flashpoints and vulnerable communities across Gwagwalada, including Old and New Kutunku, Central Market, Palace Road, Bob Housing, Mega Screen, Passo, Paikon-Kore, and Dobi.
The operation was aimed at deterring criminal activities, disrupting suspected bandit and kidnapper hideouts, and encouraging community cooperation.
According to security sources, the patrol team interacted with residents and local leaders, who confirmed that the area was currently calm. Troops used the opportunity to urge locals to promptly report any suspicious movements or criminal activities.
In a related development, the security agencies also held a key leadership engagement in Paikon-Kore to address rising tensions between Gwari farmers and Fulani herders over allegations of grazing route encroachment and attacks on farmlands.
The peace dialogue was convened at about 11:05 a.m. at the LEA Primary School in Paikon-Kore and was chaired by the military commander overseeing the operation, with the support of the Divisional Police Officer of Gwagwalada Division, DSS operatives, and NSCDC officers.
Also in attendance were the Hakimi of Paikon-Kore, the Ardo of the Fulani community, various Serikis, youth leaders, local vigilante groups, and executive representatives of the warring factions.
During the meeting, both communities expressed their grievances and acknowledged the importance of peaceful coexistence. The leadership of both sides agreed to refrain from violence, report unlawful acts to appropriate authorities, and abide strictly by the boundaries of federal government-approved grazing routes.
Security officials reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance for any form of violence and assured both communities of continued protection and fair mediation.
