Mutfwang Bans Hisbah Activities In Plateau, Orders Arrest Of Those Involved

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has ordered security agencies to stop the activities of a group operating as Hisbah in parts of Jos North Local Government Area.

The governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, announced the directive in a statement on Sunday.

According to him, the decision followed reports that Hisbah members were allegedly intimidating, harassing and extorting residents, while also enforcing rules that were not authorised by law.

Governor Mutfwang warned those involved to stop immediately or face arrest and prosecution under Nigerian law.

He said Plateau State has only “one constitution, one legal system and one legitimate authority”, adding that no group has the right to take on government powers without legal backing.

“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 was quoted as saying.

He also ordered security agencies to identify and investigate those involved in the reported activities, stressing that the investigation will also cover anyone accused of supporting, funding or helping the group operate.

Mutfwang stressed that the directive was not aimed at any particular religion, ethnic group or community.

“The Governor wishes to make 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,” he said.

The governor thanked residents who alerted authorities about the reported activities and assured the public that his administration would continue to respond to genuine security concerns.

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