By Peter Amine
Mr Markus Artu, Transition Implementation Chairman, Mangu Local Government of Plateau, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to religious harmony and peaceful co-existence in the area.
Artu said on Saturday in Jos that all the religious groups in Mangu would be treated fairly without any form of bias.
The chairman restated his commitment to uphold the rights and freedom of all religious groups in the area.
He pointed out that his administration never contemplated converting a worship centre into a market.
“Our attention was drawn to some allegations regarding the conversion of the Bungha Dawo Juma’at Mosque into a market space.
“These claims are not only false but also malicious attempts to sow discord and unrest in our peaceful community.
“These claims are devoid of all forms of truth. There has been no attempt by any individual or group to convert the Juma’at Mosque into a market space.
“The Dawo District, in this case, has always been committed to upholding religious freedom and respecting the sanity of places of worship, mosques included.
“We have yet to receive any formal complaint or notification from any group as regards this alleged incident,” he said.
Artu reassured the Muslim community in Mangu that their concerns would be treated with every sense of seriousness.
The chairman instructed relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter to ascertain facts and take necessary actions accordingly.
He, however, advised all stakeholders to refrain from making unverified statements and allegations that could incite tensions and hinder the progress of Mangu.
He urged all residents to remain calm and united for a better and brighter Mangu Local Government. NAN
