A coalition of Muslim groups in Plateau State has distanced itself from recent remarks by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), describing the organisation’s statement as divisive, misleading, and unrepresentative of Muslims living in the state.

Operating under the banner of the Coalition of Concerned Muslims, the group issued a strongly worded statement on Monday, signed by Alhaji Mohammed Adamu, rejecting the claims made by MURIC’s Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, against Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang.

“We have read with utter disbelief and deep concern the statement by Prof. Akintola in which he made spurious and inciting allegations against Governor Mutfwang,” the group said. “We wish to categorically and unequivocally dissociate ourselves from the said statement, which we view as a desperate attempt to paint the peace-loving people of Plateau State in a bad light and to provoke unnecessary tension between Muslims and their neighbours. That dog will not hunt.”

The coalition praised Governor Mutfwang’s leadership, describing it as inclusive and respectful of all religious and ethnic groups in the state.

“As Muslims who live, work, and raise our families on the Plateau, we can attest that under Governor Mutfwang, a fresh breeze of inclusion, respect, and peaceful coexistence has been blowing across the land,” the statement noted. “Appointments have been made based on merit, not religious identity. Government projects—roads, schools, water, and health centres—have reached our communities. Even the organisation of pilgrimages to Mecca has been handled with impressive transparency.”

They also acknowledged the cordial relationship between the governor and Muslim leaders in the state.

“Our leaders under Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) enjoy direct and open access to the governor, enabling dialogue and mutual respect,” the group added.

Expressing disappointment in Akintola’s comments, the coalition said it was inappropriate for someone outside the state to speak on issues he neither experiences nor understands.

“A stranger cannot beat the drum better than the owner of the masquerade,” the statement said. “Akintola’s remarks, laced with venom and devoid of facts, do not reflect our experiences or aspirations as Muslims in Plateau. His comments are reckless, unfounded, and an affront to our collective sensibilities.”

They warned MURIC to refrain from meddling in Plateau’s affairs, urging the group to promote unity rather than sow discord.

“We advise Prof. Akintola to steer clear of Plateau affairs, lest he becomes the fly that follows the corpse into the grave. Let him use his platform to build bridges, not walls. Nigeria is already facing many challenges—it needs healing voices, not toxic tongues.”

The coalition concluded by reaffirming its support for Governor Mutfwang.

“We stand firmly with Governor Mutfwang. He has been fair, just, and inclusive. As Muslims in Plateau, we are stakeholders in the peace and progress of our dear state, and we shall not allow anyone to sow discord in our midst.”