The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has expressed concern over Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang’s recent call for the withdrawal of soldiers from conflict zones in the state, labeling the request as suspicious and potentially dangerous.
In a statement on Wednesday, MURIC’s Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, questioned the rationale behind the governor’s appeal to replace military personnel with mobile policemen in areas affected by persistent violence, including Riyom Local Government Area, where 27 people were reportedly killed by suspected militias.
Akintola said MURIC suspects a hidden agenda behind the governor’s request. “It is highly questionable for a state plagued by consistent attacks to request the withdrawal of soldiers. This action raises serious security concerns,” he stated.
He further accused certain elements in Plateau State of orchestrating a campaign of manipulation and deceit, alleging that some local women even support the attackers by providing shelter and supplies. “These women protest against soldiers while knowing their own people are responsible for killings,” Akintola said.
MURIC also warned that the proposed replacement of soldiers with mobile policemen could be a calculated effort to target Muslim and Fulani communities. Akintola alleged that the mobile police units are heavily staffed with individuals from Plateau and neighboring North Central states, suggesting potential bias if deployed.
He called on the federal government and security agencies to thoroughly assess the implications of Governor Mutfwang’s request before making any decisions that could worsen the security situation in the region.
