Mutfwang to Plateau Hisbah: No Group Can Take Over Law Enforcement, Stop or Face Prosecution

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has warned against the activities of a group reportedly operating as Hisbah in parts of Jos North, declaring its reported operations illegal.

The governor ordered security agencies to immediately stop the activities and investigate those involved.

According to Gyang Bere, Mutfwang’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, the directive followed reports of alleged intimidation, harassment, extortion and the imposition of unauthorised rules on residents.

Mutfwang warned persons participating in the activities to desist or risk arrest and prosecution under Nigerian law.

The governor said Plateau State has a single constitutional framework and legal system, adding that the enforcement of laws must be undertaken by recognised authorities.

He maintained that no group could assume powers that had not been legally conferred on it.

Security agencies were directed to identify individuals involved in the reported activities and determine their roles.

The directive includes those accused of promoting, sponsoring, aiding or abetting the activities.

Mutfwang also rejected any interpretation of the directive as an action against a particular religion or ethnic community.

He said the government’s responsibility was to ensure equal protection for all residents of Plateau State.

The governor thanked residents who alerted authorities to the reported activities and reiterated that his administration would continue to respond to credible security concerns.