As Plateau State joined the global Muslim community in commemorating the 56th Eid al-Maulud on Saturday 6th September 2024, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and renowned philanthropist-politician Chief Kefas Ropshik have called for renewed commitment to religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among residents of the state.

Speaking on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Jos Central Mosque during the Maulud celebration marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), Governor Mutfwang, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, emphasized the importance of unity across religious and ethnic lines.

Delivering the Governor’s goodwill message, Arc. Jatau reiterated that peaceful coexistence is the only pathway to restoring Plateau’s lost glory. He reminded the Muslim Ummah that the Governor, though not physically present, was celebrating with them in spirit as a lover of all people, regardless of faith.

“One of the first projects undertaken by this administration was the renovation of the Jos Central Mosque and the construction of roads in predominantly Muslim areas,” Jatau stated. “Governor Mutfwang’s appointments into ministries and agencies have also reflected fairness across religious and ethnic divides.”

He urged Muslims to reciprocate this gesture of inclusion and support the government when the time comes for political engagement. According to him, religion was divinely designed to promote harmony, not division.

“Religion is a choice. You can decide to be a Christian or a Muslim. Why then should we alter what God has perfectly designed for peaceful living together?” the SSG asked rhetorically.

Governor Mutfwang also condemned politicians who exploit religion and ethnicity for selfish political gain, urging citizens to be wary of such divisive tactics.

“Plateau’s biggest challenge remains the politicization of religion and tribe. We must imbibe togetherness because we are one people,” he emphasized.

Arc. Jatau was accompanied by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Hon. Ephraim Usman Ngwan, who highlighted the inclusiveness of the Mutfwang administration. He shared his personal testimony of having both Christians and Muslims in his family living harmoniously, encouraging others to emulate such peaceful coexistence.

Also present were the Jos North Council Chairman, Hon. Joseph Koroh Chris; the Hon. Commissioner for Commerce and industry Hon. Muhammed Nyalun, the Executive Secretary of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board Hon. Dayyabu Dauda, Hon. Nuru Jos the Liaison officer to the governor Jos north-north; and other top government officials. Collectively, they reassured the Muslim community of government’s continued support and commitment to religious harmony.

In a separate interview at the event, Chief Kefas Ropshik, MD/CEO of Kefiano Autos and a former PDP governorship aspirant, echoed the Governor’s message. He described Islam as a religion of peace and lamented the negative perception of Plateau State outside its borders due to past crises.

“Plateau is a peaceful state. I always feel bad when I hear otherwise. No matter the religion you profess, we are one and must remain one,” he said.

Ropshik stressed that tolerance is the bedrock of unity and cautioned against using religion as a tool for discrimination or division.

“When I came into this world, I didn’t have a discussion with God about what religion to belong to, no one did. Religion is in the heart. If you’re a criminal, you’re a criminal. Your religion doesn’t define you,” he stated.

He cited his 7,000-hectare mechanized farm, managed by a Muslim, as a testament to peaceful collaboration across faiths.

“Religion doesn’t define who you are; your personal deeds do. There are good Christians and good Muslims. What matters is the fear of God and Allah,” he added.

Ropshik also commended Governor Mutfwang for earning the trust and commendation of the Muslim community and urged him to continue implementing inclusive policies, particularly in Jos North.

As the Eid Maulud festivities concluded, both Governor Mutfwang and Chief Ropshik left a unified message: Plateau State’s future lies in religious tolerance, peace, and shared prosperity, not in division.