Army orders UNIJOS to stop demolition of structures in community | EduCeleb
EduCeleb
10th March 2020
The Nigerian Army has intervened in the controversy between the University of Jos (UNIJOS) and its host community called Narkuta.
Authorities at the university believe that residents in Narkuta community had over the years trespassed into its landed property.
Commander of Operation Save Haven (OPSH), Augustine Agundu, has directed the school management to halt ongoing demolition exercises around the area.
The Major-General called for a dialogue over the land dispute between the Narkuta community and UNIJOS.
OPSH is a multi-security task force saddled with the responsibility of maintaining peace in Plateau, part of Bauchi, Kaduna and Nasarawa states.
Agundu ordered that “demolition of structures in the disputed area should be put to halt by the University of Jos, pending negotiations towards amicable resolution that provides lasting solutions to the contest.”
The Commander made the declaration during a meeting held Monday, in Narguta community, Jos.
He said the matter will be referred to Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong, in order to peacefully arrive at position that is most convincing, fulfilling and promising to all parties involved.
Reacting, the traditional ruler of Narguta community, Muhammad Bello, lamented that the demolition has caused a great havoc on the community, pleading however, that those whose houses were demolished be sympathized and compensated.
Bello assured the commander that his people will continue to remain law abiding.
The meeting was attended by many dignitaries within the affected community and beyond.
EduCeleb.com also reported that members of community under the aegis of Narkuta-Babale Bayan Doka Development Association (NABBDA) called on authorities at UNIJOS to prioritise them in admissions and employment exercises for peace to further reign.