- Plateau State government responds to outcry, commits to incorporating Muslims into the security committee formed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang
- Dissatisfaction arose over the initial committee composition; Secretary to the State Government assures Muslims will be included, emphasizing inclusivity
In response to public outcry, the Plateau State government has committed to incorporating Muslims into the security committee formed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Governor Mutfwang, on Wednesday, revealed a list of committee members tasked with addressing the ethno-religious crises gripping the state. However, this announcement triggered dissatisfaction, particularly from the Muslim communities who felt neglected.
Initially, the Secretary to the Government of the State, Arc. Samuel N. Jatau, disclosed the committee members as “AVM. Napoleon Bali (rtd), HRH Da Gyang Buba, Prof. Gyanyir Lombin, Gen G.G. Shipi (rtd), DIG Felix Vwamhi (rtd), DIG Habila Jwalshak (rtd), Major Toholman Daffi (rtd), Arc Samuel Jatau, Coordinator Operation Rainbow, and one representative from PIDAN.”
Expressing concern, the Muslim community argued that the governor’s selection was biased.
In response to the growing discontent, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) assured the public that Muslims would be included in the committee. He emphasized that the committee aimed to create a comprehensive stakeholder list, transcending faith, ethnicity, and gender boundaries. The objective is potentially convene an All Plateau Confab, fostering trust and peace in the state.
Addressing the issue, the SSG stated, “The Plateau State Government is committed to an all-inclusive approach, and Governor Mutfwang will ensure that this committee reflects the diversity of our state.”
Warning against divisive commentaries, the statement reiterated the governor’s dedication to an all-encompassing government.
Condemning the perceived exclusion of Muslims in the committee, Prof Ishaq Akintola, Executive Director of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), criticized Governor Mutfwang for what he deemed anti-Muslim sentiments. Akintola emphasized the need for diversity, urging the governor to rectify the composition of the 11-man security committee.
The Plateau State government remains under scrutiny, with stakeholders eagerly awaiting the implementation of inclusive measures in the security committee to address the state’s challenges.