Plateau Group Backs Mutfwang’s Ban on Unauthorised Hisbah Activities

The Plateau Vanguard for Democracy has shown solidarity with Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s decision to halt the operations of a Hisbah enforcement group, active in certain areas of Jos North Local Government Area. In a statement released by its National Coordinator, Chris Ishaku, the group made clear that no private entity has the constitutional right to pressure citizens, enact unapproved regulations or enforce penalties beyond Nigeria's established legal framework.

The directive stemmed from claims that affiliated individuals had harassed, intimidated and extorted locals, while attempting to compel compliance with rules not sanctioned by Plateau State law. Ishaku emphasized that the governor's move was crucial for maintaining public order, protecting individual rights and ensuring equal treatment for all residents, regardless of their religious, ethnic or community backgrounds.

He reiterated that backing the directive does not equate to opposing any faith or community, but rather acknowledges that Plateau State operates under one Constitution, legal system and legitimate authority. The organization appealed to religious, traditional, political and community leaders to dissuade their constituents from engaging in unlawful enforcement actions.

They recommended that residents with grievances about others' behavior report such incidents to the police or other legally recognized entities. Ishaku also welcomed the directive instructing security forces to identify and investigate those believed to be implicated, urging them to conduct the investigation professionally, adhere to due process and prevent innocent residents from being unjustly targeted.

"Anyone found sponsoring, assisting or participating in unlawful activities should face prosecution, while innocent residents must be safeguarded," he stated. "Peace cannot endure when competing factions establish competing laws. Plateau’s diversity must be managed by justice, tolerance and a unified constitutional order." The claims against the alleged group have not been independently verified, and no statements were provided by its suspected members in the release.