By DAN MANJANG
The directive by Governor of Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State declaring unauthorised activities reportedly being carried out under the name of Hisbah illegal and directing security agencies to investigate and take appropriate action is timely, necessary and commendable.
It is a clear affirmation that, in a constitutional democracy, no individual or group can arrogate to itself powers that belong exclusively to duly constituted authorities of the state.
The issue before the people of Plateau State is not about religion, ethnicity or community. It is fundamentally about lawful authority, public order and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Every resident, irrespective of faith or background, is subject to the same laws and entitled to the same protection.
Any group that establishes itself as an alternative enforcement authority, imposes unauthorised rules, intimidates citizens, extorts money or interferes with people’s lawful activities is testing the authority of government and should be treated accordingly.
Defending constitutional order
The reported activities, if established by investigation, must not be dismissed as an ordinary misunderstanding or a minor breach of public order. They represent a dangerous precedent because allowing self-appointed groups to exercise powers reserved for government could gradually undermine the authority of the state and create competing centres of power.
Today, it may be an unauthorised group imposing rules on residents. Tomorrow, another group could claim the right to administer its own justice or enforce its own laws.
That is how the foundations of constitutional government are weakened.
Government, therefore, has a responsibility to act decisively, firmly and within the law. Security agencies should thoroughly investigate the allegations, identify those responsible and ensure that anyone found to have committed offences is prosecuted in accordance with due process.
No one should be above the law, regardless of political connection, religious affiliation, social status, ethnicity or influence. Whoever’s ox is gored, the law must take its course.
At the same time, enforcement must remain professional and evidence-based. Innocent persons should not be victimised, while those genuinely responsible for unlawful conduct should not escape accountability. This balance is essential to preserving both justice and public confidence.
Law must apply equally, equitably
Governor Mutfwang’s clarification that the action is not directed against any religion, ethnic group or community is particularly important. Plateau State belongs to all its citizens, and its diversity should be protected rather than exploited.
The state must remain a place where Muslims, Christians and people of every ethnic background can live, worship and conduct their lawful affairs freely, provided their activities remain within the law.
The governor’s directive should, therefore, be understood as a defence of constitutional order, not an attack on any faith or community. The people of Plateau State expect their government to protect them from intimidation, coercion and the emergence of parallel authorities.
The responsibility for maintaining public order belongs to legally constituted institutions, which must exercise their powers impartially and within the boundaries of the law. Any departure from this principle risks creating uncertainty about who has the legitimate authority to enforce laws and protect citizens.
Test of government’s resolve
This is a moment for responsible citizens to support the rule of law. Firm, lawful and impartial enforcement is necessary not only to deal with those found culpable, but also to serve as a strong deterrent to anyone contemplating similar acts in the future.
However, the response must be guided by credible evidence and due process. The government must neither allow unlawful conduct to flourish nor permit innocent people to become victims of an indiscriminate crackdown.
Plateau State must have one government, one legal framework and one authority recognised by law. The supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law must remain non-negotiable.
The governor’s directive provides an opportunity to reaffirm this fundamental principle. The protection of citizens, preservation of public order and enforcement of the law cannot be outsourced to self-appointed authorities.
What is required now is responsible action that is firm enough to protect the authority of the state, yet fair enough to uphold the rights of every citizen.
Manjang, mnipr, M.Div., former Plateau State Commissioner of Information and Communication, writes from Jos via dmanjang@gmail.com