CDS Musa Orders Ruthless Offensive Against Criminals in Plateau, Renames Operation Safe Haven “Operation Enduring Peace”

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has directed troops to take a decisive and uncompromising stance against criminal elements threatening the peace and security of Plateau State and its surrounding environments.

Speaking during an operational review, General Musa charged troops under the newly rebranded Operation Enduring Peace—formerly known as Operation Safe Haven (OPSH)—to abandon defensive postures and launch full-scale offensives against bandits, terrorists, and other criminal gangs.

“I don’t want to hear that criminals attacked and we repelled them. There is nothing like repel. Any criminal that comes out to attack should not go back to tell the story,” the CDS declared in a firm tone.

He further directed security forces to comb every bush, forest, and hideout used as criminal enclaves, stressing that no sanctuary should be left untouched. “Every bush, every hideout where these criminals operate must be combed, and they must be neutralized,” he added.

General Musa emphasized that the military’s renewed strategy in Plateau and other troubled parts of the North Central is to bring lasting peace, restore confidence among local communities, and dismantle the networks of armed groups terrorizing farmers, travelers, and rural dwellers.

The renaming of the operation to Operation Enduring Peace, according to the CDS, reflects the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment not just to temporary security measures, but to establishing sustainable peace and security in the region.

He assured that the military remains fully committed to its constitutional responsibility of defending the nation, while urging local communities to support ongoing operations with timely intelligence.

The move comes amid renewed concerns over attacks in Plateau communities, with security forces under pressure to deliver decisive results and prevent further loss of lives.