BEVERLY HILLS, February 12, (THEWILL) – The foundation stone of the planned military base in Ungwan Yashi area of Zangon Kataf Local Government, Southern Kaduna, laid on penultimate Saturday by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai, has been destroyed by unknown hoodlums.
The military base was one of the efforts by the state to step up security in the area and reduce the incessant killings by Fulani herdsmen and the locals.
According to a statement released by Samuel Aruwan, Spokesman of the state Governor Nasir El-Rufai, the Governor declared that he would not give in to obstacles and setback to its stabilisation and peace building efforts by destructive elements and promised to deal with the perpetrators of the action.
“I received the news with shock over the unfortunate destruction of foundation laid for the proposed Nigerian Army Battalion in Southern Kaduna,” the Governor was quoted in the statement.
“The very structure we erected to establish the long-awaited Army Barracks to assist in promotion of peace and end the decades of senseless blood-shedding, in the southern part of Kaduna State.
“The situation is unfortunate, condemnable and a setback to the government’s communal stabilization and peace building efforts, but we will not be deterred.
“We urge our people that cherish peaceful coexistence, to continue to be resilient, focused and resolute in overcoming antics of forces of darkness and evil.
“Those that did this are determined to derail the contributions of the security agencies, having failed to spread their tentacles of hate, bigotry and penchant for divisiveness.
“I want to use this medium to appeal to all men and women of conscience to remain firm and optimistic, while the government in collaboration with security agencies, civil society, religious and traditional institutions will continue to work assiduously for peace and security of life and property.
“Finally, all those that have their hands in the destruction of this structure will not go free.
“The security agencies will fish out the perpetrators, and those found to be involved, or engaged in omissions that led to the destruction of public property will be brought to justice without fear or favour.”
