Mutfwang orders crackdown on ‘illegal’ HISBA activities in Plateau

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has ordered security agencies to halt the activities of a group operating under the name HISBA in parts of Jos North Local Government Area, calling them illegal, unauthorised and unacceptable.

The directive followed reports that the group allegedly intimidated and harassed residents, demanded money and imposed rules without legal authority. Mutfwang warned those involved to stop or face arrest and prosecution under Nigerian law.

The governor said Plateau State operates under “one Constitution, one legal system and one legitimate authority.” He rejected the emergence of any parallel authority or self-appointed enforcement body that seeks to impose restrictions or sanctions outside the Nigerian legal framework.

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Plateau State has one Constitution, one legal system and one legitimate authority, and no individual or group has the right to assume powers that have not been conferred upon it by law.

Mutfwang instructed security agencies to identify and investigate those involved. Where evidence establishes violations, authorities should arrest and prosecute people responsible, as well as anyone promoting, sponsoring, aiding or abetting the activities. He also ordered increased intelligence gathering and other lawful operations to protect residents from coercion.

The governor stressed that the action was not directed at any religion or ethnic group. He said no individual or group could appoint itself as the government of Plateau State, adding that law enforcement belongs to duly constituted authorities.

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No individual or group has the authority to appoint itself the government of Plateau State.