DSS and Nigerian Army LG Chairman, wife and six children

The Peace Committee of Chanchanji Ward in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State has called on the Department of State Security Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army to immediately release Mr. Salem Mela, the committee chairman, along with his wife and six children.

In a statement released by Mr. Solomon John Kulenkwagh, Secretary of the Committee, the arrest was condemned, and relevant authorities were urged to intervene.

Mr. Kulenkwagh alleged that Mr. Mela, his wife, and their six children were arrested by a joint team of DSS and Nigerian Army personnel on Wednesday around 1:20 a.m.

“The Peace Committee of Chanchanji Ward, Takum Local Government, wishes to express its deep concern and outright condemnation over the recent arrest and detention of Mr. Salem Mela, the Chairman of the Committee, along with his pregnant wife and six children.

This unfortunate incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, around 1:20 a.m., carried out by a team comprising personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army.

“The Chanchanji Central Youth formed this peace committee in February 2024, with the mission to foster peace and unity among the five Tiv clans under Chanchanji Council Ward.

Our efforts, which have been recognized and approved by local authorities, including the Local Government Chairman, the Divisional Police Officer of Takum, and the Commanding Officer of the 93 Battalion Ada Barracks, have contributed to significant improvements in the security of our area.

“However, despite our unwavering commitment to promoting peace, we are now witnessing the violation of the rights of one of our key members,” he said.

The arrest of Mr. Salem Mela is condemnable. What is most alarming is the detention of his pregnant wife and six children.

“While we understand the role of security agencies in maintaining law and order, the arrest of innocent family members who have no involvement in any alleged breach of peace is completely unjustifiable and goes against the principles of justice and human rights.

“We demand the immediate release of Mr. Mela’s wife and children while any interrogation of Mr. Mela continues in accordance with the law.

“The ongoing detention of a pregnant woman and children is not only inhumane but also an infringement upon their fundamental rights.

“We call on the relevant authorities to act swiftly in rectifying the situation.

We remain committed to promoting peace and urge all stakeholders to uphold the values of justice, fairness, and respect for human rights in all actions,” the statement concluded.