Mutfwang orders crackdown on ‘illegal’ HISBA activities in Plateau

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has ordered an immediate end to the activities of a group operating in Jos North Local Government Area, known as Hisbah. The governor declared the group's actions illegal, unauthorized, and unacceptable, following reports that they have intimidated, harassed, and extorted residents by imposing unauthorized rules.

Mutfwang warned all involved parties to cease such conduct or face arrest and prosecution in line with Nigerian laws. He emphasized that Plateau has one constitution, legal system, and legitimate authority, and no individual or group can assume powers not legally granted. In a press release, Mutfwang's Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Gyang Bere, emphasized that "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." The governor directed security agencies to identify, arrest, and investigate those involved in the reported activities, and to prosecute them if found guilty. Mutfwang stressed that his directive is not targeted at any religion, ethnic group, or community, and that every resident of Plateau State is entitled to equal protection under the law.

He affirmed the state's proud tradition of peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths, ethnicities, and backgrounds, and pledged to defend this tradition by protecting peace, ensuring equal treatment of citizens, and maintaining the rule of law.