Karim Elders Forum Rejects Virginia Baba Jatau, Endorses Danjos for Council Chairmanship

The Karim Elders Concern Forum has kicked against the reported endorsement of Mrs. Virginia Baba Jatau as Chairman of Karim Lamido Local Government Council, urging Governor Agbu Kefas to reconsider the decision ahead of the November local government elections.

In an open letter to the Governor, the forum expressed appreciation for his administration's commitment to development, inclusivity, and peacebuilding in Karim Lamido, particularly the appointment of three commissioners from Karim 1 Constituency and the establishment of a peace committee that has fostered unity in the area.

However, the elders raised concern over the choice of Mrs. Jatau, noting that she hails from the same unit, village, town, and tribe as the Governor's Chief of Staff. According to the forum, the move has sparked discontent among stakeholders and could undermine confidence in the Governor's commitment to fairness in political appointments.

"Feedback from grassroots stakeholders and elders indicates that a significant majority of Karim Lamido people are not in support of this appointment," the letter stated. "There are fears that the decision could weaken the cordial relationship between our people and your administration and also affect the PDP's goodwill in the November elections."

The forum also argued that given the security challenges in the area, the local government requires a leader with long-standing political experience and a proven record in crisis management.

Instead, the elders reaffirmed their support for the incumbent chairman, Hon. Bitrus I. Danjos, citing his achievements in security, infrastructure, and conflict resolution.

Among the accomplishments listed were strengthened security measures that reduced herders–farmers clashes, construction of culverts linking Lau and Karim, establishment of a modern cattle market, renovation of government structures, and proactive engagement in peacebuilding efforts across more than 20 conflict-prone communities.

They also commended Danjos for his personal sacrifices, noting that he had survived two assassination attempts while working to resolve disputes in the local government.

"These milestones underscore Hon. Bitrus I. Danjos' proven leadership, dedication, and deep understanding of the peculiar challenges facing Karim Lamido. We strongly believe that granting him another term would consolidate the progress already achieved," the letter read.

The forum appealed to Governor Kefas to endorse Danjos for a second term, describing him as the candidate best suited to sustain peace and development in Karim Lamido.