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From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has ordered security agencies to clamp down on the activities of a Hisbah group, who declared illegal government in Jos North local government area of the state.
The governor described their activities illegal, unauthorised and unacceptable in Plateau State.
In a statement signed by the Director of Press Affairs, Gyang Bere, the governor said that the directive followed reports of activities allegedly involving the intimidation, harassment, extortion and imposition of unauthorised rules on residents of the area.
Mutfwang warned all persons involved to immediately desist from such conduct or face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Governor stressed that Plateau State has one Constitution, one legal system and one legitimate authority, and that no individual or group has the right to assume powers that have not been conferred upon it by law.
He stated that government will not permit the emergence of any parallel authority, self-appointed enforcement body or group seeking to impose rules, restrictions or sanctions on citizens outside the established legal framework of the Nigerian state.
“No individual or group has the authority to appoint itself the government of Plateau State. The responsibility for enforcing the law belongs to duly constituted authorities acting within the law.”
Mutfwang has therefore directed the security agencies in the State to identify and investigate persons involved in the reported activities and, where sufficient evidence establishes violations of the law, to arrest and prosecute those responsible, as well as persons found to be promoting, sponsoring, aiding or abetting such unlawful activities.
He further directed the security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and other lawful operations necessary to establish the identity and activities of those involved and to ensure that residents are protected from intimidation, harassment, extortion or any other form of unlawful coercion.
The Governor made it clear that this directive is not directed at any religion, ethnic group or community. Plateau State remains home to people of diverse faiths, ethnicities and backgrounds, all of whom are entitled to equal protection under the law.
“The issue before the Government is solely one of lawful conduct and legitimate authority. Every resident of Plateau State has the right to live, worship, work, conduct lawful business and go about their daily activities without intimidation or interference from any self-appointed authority.”
Mutfwang expressed his appreciation to members of the public who brought the reported activities to the attention of the authorities and assured residents that his administration will continue to take every credible security concern seriously.
He reaffirmed that the protection of the lives, rights, dignity and lawful freedoms of all residents remains a fundamental responsibility of government.
“Plateau State has a proud tradition of peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths, ethnicities and backgrounds. Governor Mutfwang will continue to defend that tradition by ensuring that peace is protected, citizens are treated equally, and the rule of law remains supreme.”
