Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has directed security agencies to clamp down on individuals allegedly conducting Hisbah-related activities in parts of Jos North Local Government Area.
The governor ordered the relevant authorities to identify and investigate those involved, warning that anyone found to have acted unlawfully would be arrested and prosecuted.
Mutfwang’s directive was contained in a statement released on Sunday by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere.
The statement followed reports alleging that the group had been subjecting residents to intimidation and harassment, demanding money from members of the public and enforcing rules despite having no legal mandate to do so.
Following the reports, the governor instructed security agencies to take immediate steps to stop the activities and ensure that those responsible were brought under investigation.
Mutfwang warned the individuals allegedly involved to discontinue their operations, emphasising that the enforcement of laws and maintenance of public order remain the responsibilities of legally recognised government institutions.
He maintained that no private group or individual had the constitutional authority to establish an alternative system of government or exercise powers reserved for authorised state agencies.
The governor said Plateau State would not permit the creation of parallel authorities or the enforcement of rules by groups operating outside the law.
He stressed that anyone seeking to exercise governmental or law enforcement powers without proper legal backing would be dealt with appropriately.
The statement further revealed that the investigation would cover both members of the alleged group and persons suspected of financing, facilitating or otherwise supporting its activities.
However, Mutfwang clarified that the directive should not be viewed as an attack on any religion, ethnic group or community.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting all residents of Plateau State, regardless of their religious beliefs, ethnic background or place of origin.
He said every resident was entitled to equal protection under the law and that government actions would continue to be guided by the principles of fairness, justice and constitutional authority.
Mutfwang also called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information about activities capable of threatening peace and public safety.
He thanked members of the public who alerted the authorities to the alleged conduct, noting that such cooperation was essential to maintaining security across the state.
The governor reiterated that Plateau State operates under a single legal framework and that no individual or organisation would be permitted to assume powers that had not been granted by law.
He assured residents that his administration would continue to respond to legitimate security concerns while ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all communities were respected.
Mutfwang further urged security agencies to carry out the investigation professionally and in accordance with the law, stressing that the government remained committed to maintaining peace and preventing activities capable of disrupting the peaceful coexistence of residents across Plateau State.
