A Plateau-based advocacy group, Vanguard for the Voice of Reasoning, has strongly refuted allegations by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) that Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang called for the withdrawal of soldiers from crisis areas in the state to target Muslims.
In a statement signed by its chairman, James Buba, the group described MURIC’s claims, made by its Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, as false, inciting, and aimed at stoking ethno-religious tension. It said the Governor has never demanded the removal of military personnel but has consistently advocated for greater synergy among all security agencies, including the military, police, civil defence, and vigilantes, to tackle insecurity.
The group noted that MURIC’s statement misrepresented the Governor’s recent visit to Jebbu and Bindi in Riyom Local Government Area, where 27 people were killed. During the visit, Mutfwang condoled with the community, urged restraint, and called for professionalism and accountability among security personnel — without asking for soldiers to be withdrawn.
According to the statement, Governor Mutfwang’s administration has demonstrated inclusiveness and respect for the Muslim community through key appointments, sponsorship of Muslim pilgrims to Mecca in 2023, 2024, and 2025, and infrastructural investments in Muslim-majority areas. It also highlighted his regular engagement with Muslim leaders to address concerns amicably.
The group condemned MURIC’s comments as malicious and divisive, saying Prof. Akintola’s remarks, including those allegedly branding Plateau women as collaborators in violence, were crude and unbecoming of his academic status.
It called on Nigerians, particularly the Muslim Ummah in Plateau and across the country, to disregard MURIC’s allegations and urged security agencies to monitor the organisation’s activities for any actions that could threaten peace.
The statement reaffirmed support for Governor Mutfwang, describing him as a leader committed to peace, religious harmony, and the welfare of all Plateau citizens regardless of faith.