Suspected killer of Fulani leader in Plateau arrested in Lagos

The alleged mastermind of the murder of Adamu Idris, the Ardo (Fulani leader) of Panyam in Mangu Local Government of Plateau State, has been arrested.

The Nigerian Army, in a statement, said personnel of its Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) tactical team arrested Philip Gokas, alias Jaykimo, in Lagos State following weeks of painstaking manhunt to arrest him.

The deceased, Mr Idris, was declared missing on 24 September, when he was said to be returning from a condolence visit to Mangu. His corpse was later found in a shallow grave in neighbouring Bauchi State.

Mr Idris had relocated to Bauchi after his community was sacked in the spiralling conflict between Fulanis and Mwaghavuls.

The often tit-for-tat conflict between Mwaghavuls and the Fulanis has claimed hundreds of lives, and several thousands of others have been displaced.

The spokesperson of OPSH, Oya James, said the unit’s relentless pursuit of the suspect led to his eventual arrest in the Ogba area of Lagos State, where he was found at a bar in a football viewing centre.

“The arrest of Mr Philip Gokas is a testament to the commitment and unwavering dedication of OPSH and the effectiveness of collaborative efforts.

“Mr Gokas has fully confessed to the crime and has provided crucial information that will aid in the arrest of additional individuals involved in this heinous act in the coming days.

“This development serves as a clear warning to criminals that they cannot elude justice as security agencies retain the capacity and resilience to utilise all elements of national power to hold them accountable as directed by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen CG Musa.

“Recall that, following the murder of Ardo Panyam, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, directed Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) to recover the body of the deceased, which was accomplished by the OPSH Tactical team in a remote area of Bauchi State and handed over to the family for burial.

“The directive further charged the troops to quickly hunt down the perpetrators and bring them to justice to prevent reprisals and a fresh circle of violence after the peace being enjoyed on the Plateau consequent upon the launch of Operation HAKORIN DAMISA IV.

“The breakthrough also signifies a milestone in our pursuit for justice. We, therefore, remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining peace and security on the Plateau and its environs. We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent any escalation of violence.

“The General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Maj Gen AE Abubakar, expresses his heartfelt appreciation to the public for their support and cooperation throughout this investigation.

“The recovery of the body of the late Ardo of Panyam and the subsequent arrest of Mr Philip Gokas would not have been possible without the invaluable assistance and information provided by the community.

“He further reiterated that the criminal act was perpetrated by a few bad eggs in the society and does not represent the intent of the good people of Panyam who have lived for years peacefully with their Fulani brothers.

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“The GOC further commended the troops especially the Tactical Team for their tireless efforts, professionalism, and unwavering commitment during the operation in far away Lagos.

“We assure the public that our efforts to ensure the safety and security of all citizens will not waver and remain paramount. We will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders and engage in continuous dialogue to foster peace and tranquillity in the area,” the army said in a statement.