Many Nigerians were shocked when news broke out that the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, raised the alarm on the activities of a group allegedly operating as Hisbah in parts of Jos North Local Government Area (LGA).
The group was alleged to be conducting activities in the name of Hisbah, and engaging in intimidation, harassment, extortion and imposing unauthorised rules on residents, and introducing rules that were not approved by the government
Hisbah refers to a religious and moral enforcement system found in several northern Nigerian states. It is based on the Islamic principle of encouraging what is considered right and discouraging what is considered wrong.
Plateau State is a predominantly Christian state, it has not Sharia Law.
Before Sharia Law is introduced in any state, it will be at the stance of the governor and the state House of Assembly.
At no time did the executive and legislative arms of government in the state introduce Sharia Law in the state.
It was therefore not surprising that the governor described the group’s operations as illegal and unauthorised, warning that those behind the activities could face arrest and prosecution if they fail to stop.
Mutfwang clarified that Plateau would not permit any group to operate as a parallel security agency without lawful authorisation. He directed security agencies to identify and investigate persons involved in the reported activities and prosecute those found culpable. He further ordered the arrest and prosecution of anyone found promoting, sponsoring, aiding or abetting the unlawful activities.
Nigeria is a secular state governed by one Constitution, one legal system, and one legitimate authority.
Unlike other states in the North-west and North-east, Plateau State has a majority Christian population and has the right to decide what is acceptable for the peaceful co-existence of the people of the state.
The state has already been devastated by incessant killings and should not be plunged into worse religious violence.
This is why Governor Mutfwang has to ensure that he stands firm and guard the fragile peace in his state jealously.