Enough of religious profiling against Governor Mutfwang, says Jos based Islamic scholar

As a bonafide Muslim and indigene of Jos, Plateau State, I find it perplexing and troubling that Alhaji Kabiru Gwamlar who describes himself as the Secretary of Plateau State Muslim Indigenes—would author a petition laced with baseless insinuations, accusing His Excellency, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, of selective condemnation and favouritism in handling the persistent security challenges bedeviling our state.

Frankly, I do not know whether he was speaking for himself or under some imagined mandate. As a Muslim from Plateau, I am not aware of any forum that authorized him to write such a divisive and unfounded petition in the name of Muslims. If indeed Alhaji Kabiru Gwamlar exists and was not conjured for the sole purpose of mischief, then he must be speaking from the deep recesses of personal bias.

Let it be known loud and clear that the attempt by the author of that disjointed and inflammatory submission to pitch indigenous Muslims against a Governor who has demonstrated fairness and compassion to all citizens is nothing but a misadventure. He has become, wittingly or unwittingly, a courier of hatred, carrying a message that seeks to fragment the unity we all strive to uphold in Plateau state.

SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

We say in our culture, “He who fetches firewood infested with ants should expect the lizards as guests.” It is important that Alhaji Gwamlar takes responsibility for the consequences of spreading falsehoods wrapped in religious garb. His freedom of expression does not grant him the license to peddle misinformation or misrepresent facts, especially on matters as sensitive as security and religion.

For the benefit of discerning Nigerians and peace-loving citizens of Plateau State, I wish to state the following:

1. I wholly condemn the recurring acts of terror and violence in rural communities across Plateau State, regardless of who the victims are. The persistent insecurity in some parts of the state appears orchestrated by shadowy elements determined to sabotage Governor Mutfwang’s vision of building a peaceful and united Plateau. We must resist being pawns in the hands of such merchants of division.

2. No part of Plateau has been neglected by Governor Mutfwang. From his first day in office, the Governor has consistently shown empathy and concern for all communities, irrespective of tribe or religion. Whether in Kanam, Wase, Mangu, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, or Langtang, his actions speak louder than words.

3. Governor Mutfwang is a leader of rare breed, full of empathy, fairness, and commitment to the welfare of all Plateau people. In times of adversity, he has stood by victims and taken bold steps to restore hope. His response to the attacks in Kukawa and other affected areas is a testament to his compassion and proactive leadership.

4. The claim that 70 people were killed in the Kukawa incident is misleading. Verified records from Kanam Local Government indicate that 12 lives were regrettably lost. Although this remains a tragedy, but far from the exaggerated figure peddled by Gwamlar. Some of the unidentified casualties are believed to be armed elements caught in a clash with their counterparts. Truth should not be sacrificed on the altar of propaganda.

5. Governor Mutfwang did not fold his arms when the Kukawa incident occurred. Upon receiving the report, he promptly directed his Chief Security Officer to work with the Local Government leadership to investigate the incident. A press statement issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Information clarified the situation, leaving no room for the speculations and distortions peddled by mischief makers.

6. What Governor Mutfwang needs now is our collective support not needless profiling. He deserves to be encouraged and strengthened in his commitment to serve Plateau with sincerity and justice. It is unfair, and indeed uncharitable, to subject him to religious profiling for doing what is right.

7. As a proud Muslim in Plateau, I refuse to be misrepresented by elements who sow discord in the name of faith. We must not allow anyone to use religion as a smokescreen to advance narrow political or ethnic interests. Governor Mutfwang has shown courage and integrity, and I stand with him not because of sentiment, but because of truth and justice.

Conclusion

A wise man once said, "When the drumbeat changes, the dancer must adjust his steps." We must begin to dance to the rhythm of unity, not dissonance. Let us focus on the things that bind us, not those that tear us apart. Plateau is our home, and we must guard its peace jealously.

By: Muhammad Abubakar

Islamic scholar and 

Indigene of Jos North LGA, Plateau State.