A coalition of Fulani associations in Taraba State has expressed strong disapproval over the exclusion of its members from the committee established by Governor Agbu Kefas to address the recent conflict in Karim Lamido Local Government Area and other parts of the state.
In a statement issued in Jalingo on Wednesday, Aishatu Ardo, the coalition leader, described the composition of the committee as deeply unjust, arguing that the Fulani—who she claims are the main victims of the crisis—have been unfairly sidelined.
Ardo, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Fulbe Development and Cultural Organization (FUDECO) in the state, acknowledged the governor’s commitment to fostering peace but emphasized the need for justice and equity.
“We are not unmindful of the resolve of His Excellency towards ensuring peaceful coexistence among the people of Taraba state irrespective of their religious belief, ethnic diversity or regional affiliation,” she said.
She went on to criticize the makeup of the inquiry commission, stating, “The Coalition hereby condemns in its entirety, the unbalanced composition of the commission of enquiry set up by the Taraba State Government to probe the remote and immediate causes of the recent communal violence in Karim-Lamido local government area of the state. It is very unfortunate that the Fulani who are the victims that suffered heavy casualty of both human lives and livestock, will not have a voice on the commission.”
The coalition also threw its weight behind others who have raised similar objections, saying, “We are therefore in alliance with the position of so many voices of concerned citizens who have submitted open letters of protest to the Taraba State Government, raising serious concerns over the composition of the recently constituted Karim-Lamido and other Areas of Crises: Peace and Justice Commission of Inquiry.”
Additionally, the group urged the media to report on the crisis more objectively and called for disciplinary measures against security personnel allegedly complicit in misconduct.
“We demand from media objective and balanced publications containing all aspects of the story. By so doing, the public confidence in the media could be restored. We decry a situation where the security personnel who are supposed to assist in the restoration of peace in an area turned around to aid and abate crime and criminality.”
The coalition raised specific allegations against a military officer: “Specifically, we are concerned about the unethical conduct of one Capt. John Datol, the Ag. C.O. 114 Battalion who led the operations that resulted in the killing of unarmed Fulani civilians in various villages, including Jen Ardido (Wuro Guga), Bandawa, Munga -Lelau, and Munga -Doso.”
“Furthermore, we appeal for the removal of Capt. John Datol from Taraba State and his investigation for violations of laid down Rules of Engagement of the Nigerian Army as well as human rights violations.” They said.
Ardo also voiced concern over the circulation of forms allegedly targeting the Fulani community, which she described as requesting “sensitive information” without clear justification. The coalition is calling on authorities to clarify the intent behind the forms.
It is worth recalling that recent ethnic clashes involving the Bandawa, Munga-Lelau, Fulani, and Munga-Doso communities have resulted in significant loss of life, destruction of property, and the deaths of numerous livestock.
