The North-Central Peace Advocates (NCPA), a peace advocacy group, has urged the military and other security agencies to intensify efforts to flush out terrorists and criminals for Benue and Plateau States.

The president of NCPA, Adamu Loko, made the call during a peace and development rally in Mararaba, Nasarawa State on Sunday.

Mr Loko, who alleged that there was an influx of terrorists and criminals into the North Central region, called for the arrest of perpetrators of killings in Benue and Plateau States.

He said that peace must return to the region to enable development and progress, adding that the killings in Benue and Plateau were the handiwork of agents of destabilisation.

Mr Loko said that agriculture, which was the main livelihood of people in the region, was being impacted negatively.

He commended the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, for his frank comments on the crisis and called for support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

According to him, this rally was organised to reach out to the people on the need for peaceful co-existence, and solicited the support of the people for restoration of peace.

“We are here to preach peace. We urge our troops to go all out and ensure perpetrators of the killings are nabbed and brought to book.

“When perpetrators are arrested and dealt with, it will bring peace.

“We will be moving around the region preaching peace,” he said.

Members of transport unions, represented by Saleh Mohammed, commended the Group for the initiative and prayed for peace to reign in the country and entire country.

He commended the Armed Forces for their resilience, sacrifices and determination across the country. 

(NAN)