The Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Naanlong Daniel, has distanced himself from allegations linking him to the alleged attack on the Mikang Local Government Legislative Chambers, describing the claims as baseless, malicious, and politically motivated.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Press Secretary, Philip Eplong, the Speaker denied sponsoring, encouraging, or authorizing any attack, invasion, or destruction of property at the Mikang Local Government Secretariat.
The allegations were reportedly made by the Leader of the Mikang Legislative Arm, Shepshal Maikalango Putdet.
Reacting to the claims, Daniel said although he visited the Mikang Local Government Secretariat after the recent party primaries, his presence should not be interpreted as involvement in any act of violence or vandalism.
He accused some members of the legislative arm of attempting to exploit the incident for political advantage through what he described as media propaganda and deliberate distortion of facts.
According to the Speaker, linking him to the alleged attack merely because he visited the area amounted to reckless assumptions lacking factual basis.
He further questioned the circumstances surrounding the allegations, stating that the speed with which the accusations were circulated without evidence raised concerns about possible conspiracy and attempts to stage or manipulate the incident for political purposes.
Daniel called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to carry out a thorough, impartial, and professional investigation into the matter instead of allowing what he termed “media trials” to shape public opinion.
The Speaker stressed that determining culpability remains the responsibility of law enforcement authorities and not individuals making public accusations without due investigative processes.
He also condemned violence, destruction of public property, intimidation, and attacks against citizens or public officials, warning against the use of unfortunate incidents for political sympathy or image laundering.
Reaffirming his commitment to democratic values, peace, justice, and responsible leadership, Daniel urged political actors, stakeholders, and residents of Mikang Local Government Area to remain calm, law-abiding, and committed to preserving peace and unity in the state.
He maintained that political disagreements should be resolved through lawful and democratic means rather than misinformation or actions capable of threatening social cohesion.