TARABA: Gov. Kefas Reinforces Justice, Inclusion as He Swears in Judge, Khadis, Advisers, Inaugurates Disabilities Commission

By Jako Keke, February 25, 2026

In a ceremony that blended symbolism with statecraft, Governor on Wednesday reinforced the pillars of justice and inclusion in Taraba State, swearing in a new High Court Judge, two Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal, newly appointed Special Advisers, and inaugurating members of the Persons Living with Disabilities Commission.

The event, held inside the stately Exco Chamber of in Jalingo, drew an array of dignitaries — from senior judicial officers and political leaders to traditional rulers, clerics, and top government functionaries — all converging to witness what many described as a defining moment for governance in the state.

At the heart of the ceremony was the swearing-in of Justice Mansura Bargami as Judge of the High Court, alongside Khadi Aliyu Yaya Abubakar and Khadi Yakubu Mohammed as Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal. Their appointments, Governor Kefas noted, represent not merely routine judicial replacements, but a deliberate effort to deepen the foundations of justice in Taraba.

Describing the judiciary as the bedrock of democracy, the governor charged the newly sworn-in judicial officers to remain steadfast in upholding justice, fairness, and integrity. He reminded them that public confidence in the legal system rests squarely on their shoulders.

“Justice must be dispensed without fear or favour,” he emphasized, underscoring that the credibility of any democratic society depends largely on the impartiality and courage of its courts.

Observers say the appointments come at a time when the role of the judiciary in safeguarding democratic values and resolving disputes is increasingly under public scrutiny, making the governor’s charge particularly significant.

Beyond the judiciary, Governor Kefas also administered the oath of office to newly appointed Special Advisers, describing their selection as merit-based and rooted in proven competence.

He urged them to deploy their experience and expertise in driving forward the administration’s development blueprint, stressing that leadership must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.

Political analysts present at the ceremony noted that the move signals a consolidation phase for the administration, with a renewed push to align advisory roles with strategic governance priorities.

Perhaps the most socially resonant aspect of the ceremony was the inauguration of members of the Persons Living with Disabilities Commission. In doing so, Governor Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to promote equal opportunity and inclusive participation in governance.

He reiterated that development must be people-centered and must carry along vulnerable groups, particularly persons living with disabilities who have historically faced systemic barriers.

The establishment and inauguration of the Commission, stakeholders say, represent a structural response to advocacy calls for stronger institutional backing for disability rights in Taraba State. It signals a shift from rhetoric to policy-backed action aimed at mainstreaming inclusion in state planning and service delivery.

Taken together, the day’s events painted a picture of an administration intent on institutional strengthening — reinforcing the judiciary, sharpening executive advisory capacity, and embedding inclusivity into governance architecture.

As the dignitaries filed out of TY Danjuma House, the ceremony stood as more than a swearing-in exercise; it was a statement of direction. For Governor Kefas, the message was clear: justice must be firm, governance must be competent, and development must be inclusive.

For Taraba State, the day marked another step in shaping institutions designed not just to function, but to endure.