Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has ordered the immediate suspension of activities by a group reportedly operating as Hisbah in parts of Jos North Local Government Area, describing its operations as illegal and unauthorised.
The governor also directed security agencies to identify and investigate individuals connected to the group and take legal action against anyone found to have violated the law.
Mutfwang’s directive followed reports that members of the group were allegedly intimidating and harassing residents, demanding money and enforcing rules and restrictions without lawful authority.
In a statement issued by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Gyang Bere, the governor warned those involved to immediately stop their activities or risk arrest and prosecution.
He stressed that no person or organisation has the constitutional authority to assume the powers of government or enforce rules outside the established legal framework.
According to the governor, Plateau State operates under a single Constitution, legal system and legitimate government. He said his administration would not permit parallel authorities or self-appointed groups to take on the responsibilities of recognised law enforcement agencies.
Mutfwang maintained that the enforcement of laws is the responsibility of properly constituted authorities operating within the limits of the law.
He further directed security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and conduct appropriate investigations to determine the identities, activities and motives of those behind the alleged operations.
The governor said individuals or organisations found to be promoting, funding, assisting or supporting unlawful activities would face prosecution where sufficient evidence establishes a breach of the law.
He assured residents that his administration would continue to protect them against intimidation, harassment, extortion and other forms of unlawful coercion.
Mutfwang also clarified that the directive was not directed at any particular religion, ethnic group or community. He emphasised that Plateau State is home to people from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds, all of whom are entitled to equal protection under the law.
The governor said the government’s concern was strictly about lawful conduct and legitimate authority, stressing that every resident has the right to worship, work, conduct lawful business and go about their daily activities without intimidation or interference from unauthorised groups.
He commended residents who brought the alleged activities to the attention of the authorities and encouraged members of the public to continue reporting credible security concerns.
Mutfwang reaffirmed that protecting the lives, rights, dignity and freedoms of residents remains a fundamental responsibility of his administration.
He added that his government would continue to promote peaceful coexistence across Plateau State while ensuring that citizens are treated equally and that the rule of law remains paramount.
