Leaders of the Muslim and Hausa-Fulani communities in Plateau State have strongly rejected Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s call for the withdrawal of soldiers from peacekeeping operations across the state, warning that such a move could endanger their lives and further escalate tensions.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by Elder Sani Mudi, the group voiced deep concern over the governor’s position, alleging that Muslims and Fulani people are already being unfairly targeted and marginalized in the ongoing crises.

“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 in part.

The group accused some actors of exploiting the situation to incite ethnic and religious hostility and urged the government to focus on addressing the root causes of conflict in the state, rather than demanding military withdrawal from volatile areas.

They referenced the 2008 post-election violence in Jos, claiming that during the unrest, hundreds of innocent Muslims were allegedly killed by individuals disguised in police uniforms. The leaders said such experiences heighten their fears and justify the need for a continued military presence to prevent further bloodshed.

“We have seen how our rights and very existence have been violated in the past. The solution is not the withdrawal of troops, but a commitment to genuine peace building and fairness to all ethnic and religious groups in Plateau State,” the statement added.

The group reiterated their willingness to work with the government and other stakeholders for lasting peace but insisted that security forces must not be withdrawn until communities feel safe and protected.