Lawyer Writes Open Letter to Governor Kefas, Challenges Religious Representation in Karim-Lamido Peace Commission

A legal practitioner and human rights advocate, Isa Buba, Esq., has submitted an open letter of protest to the Taraba State Government, raising serious concerns over the religious composition of the recently constituted Karim-Lamido and Other Areas of Crises: Peace and Justice Commission of Inquiry.

The letter, written under the banner of a firm of legal consultants and human rights activists—affiliated with Amnesty International and aspiring members of the World Jurist Association—was addressed to Governor Agbu Kefas. While the author commended the administration for its "unprecedented and indefatigable commitment" to peace and security in the state, he expressed concerns that the composition of the commission lacks adequate religious representation, particularly for the Muslim community.

The commission, announced on May 30, 2025, by the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps, comprises the following members:

Hon. Justice Silas Haruna – Chairman

Bishop Foreman Nedison (Representative of CAN)

Mall. Ibrahim Gambo (Representative of the Muslim Council)

HRH Barr. Sopiya Ahmadu Gboshi (Chief of Takum)

Mrs. Punarimam Daniel Atenji (Representative of NCWS)

Mr. Gara S. Nunga (Representative of NYCN)

Mr. Sabastine Morkwap (DCP, CID)

Eld. Ali Obadiah Umar (NDLEA)

Barr. Gloria Finchur Sonen (Representative of Civil Society Organisations)

Barr. Nierus Johnson – Secretary

While acknowledging the "unquestionable integrity" of the members, particularly praising Justice Silas Haruna for his reputation and dedication, the letter warns that the predominance of Christian members—nine out of ten—could undermine public confidence in the commission's impartiality.

"Despite the unquestionable integrity of the members of this Commission, no matter how just their report may be, it would be considered to be sentimental by the majority of the Muslims of the state," Buba noted in the letter.

To address what he described as a "critical imbalance," the lawyer proposed the inclusion of:

A Muslim High Court Judge

A Muslim First Class Chief

A representative of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN)

A representative of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)

Buba emphasized that the protest was not meant to undermine the government's efforts but to serve as a constructive input for ensuring fairness, inclusivity, and lasting peace in Taraba State.

"We do hope that this protest will be considered constructive and useful for the betterment of the state at large," the letter concluded, reaffirming the firm's "unquantifiable support" for Governor Kefas' leadership.