Governor Caleb Mutfwang has called on Plateau residents, particularly youths, to eschew violence and embrace peaceful coexistence.

Mr Mutfwang made the call during a meeting with Muslim leaders in the state on Tuesday in Jos.

The governor, who expressed his desire for a peaceful and tranquil Plateau, appealed to the leaders to preach peace in their communities.

He said the nationwide protest in the state was peaceful but regretted that hoodlums hijacked it and started looting public and private assets, particularly in Jos North LGA.

”We have shown Nigerians that we can live together as brothers; Plateau was the envy of other states. Unfortunately, in the last two days those who are not happy that we are living in peace decided to strike.

”So, we are here as leaders to seek ways to address this challenge. It is my desire that during my time as governor, there be peace on the Plateau. This should be your desire as leaders. 

“Plateau is beautiful and blessed with all the natural endowments. We must work together to ensure a united and peaceful state,” he said.

Mohammadu Sambo, the Emir of Wase and chairman of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) thanked the governor for convening the meeting.

Mr Sambo, who commended the peace efforts of the state government, said that the entire Muslim Ummah in the state would continue to support the governor to succeed.

”The Muslim community on the Plateau are here, and sir, we are proud of you and we will continue to support you to succeed. 

The happenings in the past few days are quite unfortunate, but we are already putting our heads together to address the situation.

“Sir, we want to appeal that you should not use the few bad eggs to judge us. The Muslim Ummah in Plateau are largely peaceful,” he appealed.

(NAN)