After two weeks of intensive search, the missing Fulani leader, Ardo of Panyam, Alhaji Adamu Gabdo, in Panyam District of Mangu local government area of Plateau State, has been found dead.
Recall that the community leader was declared missing by both the state police command and Commander, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), and the latter was said to have been given 48 hours by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to find the missing Ardo, whom the MACBAN said was killed in Panyam District.Â
The unfortunate situation caused tension, apprehension, and controversies in Mangu local government in the state. While the MACBAN insisted that the Fulani leader was killed, there was a presumption that since the body was not found, the association could not claim that he was killed. As a result of this, some youths were apprehended in connection with the incident.Â
The OPSH, in a statement signed by its Media Information Officer, Captain Oya James on Thursday confirmed the discovery of the body, adding that the remains of the missing Fulani leader, Ardo Adamu Idris Gabdo, the Ardo Panyam, have been discovered and recovered for burial.
The OPSH said the troops conducted the operations in the early hours of Thursday and were able to identify and recover the remains of the body of the missing Ardo around Boi along Pankshin-Bankali Road in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State, adding that the body has since been handed over to the family for proper burial.Â
“This breakthrough was made possible through the continued community engagement employed by OPSH. This remained key to the search operations, as troops worked closely with community leaders and critical stakeholders, as well as family members of Ardo Adamu Gabdo, to gather vital information and coordinate the search efforts.Â
“The steadfast collaboration between the leadership of Operation Safe Haven and communities also demonstrates the commitment and determination of both parties to ensure justice is served on the perpetrators.”
It further pointed out that the recovery of Ardo Adamu Idris Gabdo’s remains marks a significant step forward in unraveling the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.Â
According to the statement, the investigation will now proceed with renewed vigor to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime and quickly bring them to justice, as directed by the Chief of Army Staff.Â
“OPSH will continue to work tirelessly and stop at nothing to bring the perpetrators of all evil acts to justice and ensure the security of lives and property on the Plateau, especially in the entire Joint Operations Area.”Â
However, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General AE Abubakar, while commending the special operation, extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Ardo Adamu Idris Gabdo during this difficult time.Â
He urged the general public to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and provide any relevant information that may assist in the ongoing investigations.
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