Plateau Crisis: Plateau Muslim, Hausa-Fulani Leaders Reject Governor’s Call to Withdraw Military

Leaders of the Muslim and Hausa-Fulani community in Plateau State have strongly opposed Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s recent call for the withdrawal of military personnel from peacekeeping operations in the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by Elder Sani Mudi, the group expressed deep concern over the governor’s request, warning that such a move could endanger their communities, which they claim are already being targeted.

The leaders cited historical grievances, including alleged abuses during past crises, as a basis for their fears. They referenced the 2008 post-election violence in Jos, claiming that individuals dressed in police uniforms were responsible for the killing of hundreds of innocent Muslims during that period.

“We, Muslims and Hausa-Fulani leaders, express fears that the call for the removal of soldiers from peacekeeping operations is mischievous and a grand plan to give room to some people to execute their evil plans of ridding Plateau of the presence of Hausa and Fulani, regarded as unwanted settlers in the state,” the statement read.

The group urged the state government to focus instead on addressing the root causes of recurring violence, rather than removing security forces from volatile areas.

The governor’s call has sparked mixed reactions across the state, as tensions continue to simmer amid efforts to maintain peace and stability in conflict-prone regions.