Expressing worry are members of the Peace Committee in Chanchanji community of Takum Local Government Council of Taraba State following the recent apprehension of its chairman, Salem Mela, and his family.
The chairman, along with his wife and six children, was reportedly taken into custody in the early hours of Thursday by individuals believed to be from the Department of State Services (DSS).
Issuing a statement that was shared with reporters in Jalingo, the state capital, the committee strongly criticized the arrest and demanded the immediate release of Mela’s wife and children.
The release, signed by the committee’s Secretary, Solomon John Kulenkwagh, also urged the relevant authorities to swiftly intervene and ensure the prompt release of the chairman and his family.
“We insist on the immediate release of Mr. Mela’s wife and children while any questioning of Mr. Mela is conducted within the confines of the law.
“The prolonged detention of a pregnant woman and young children is not only devoid of humanity but also a violation of their fundamental rights. The family should be informed of their location and well-being, and they must not be subjected to further distress.
“We implore the responsible authorities to act promptly to rectify this situation. The Peace Committee of Chanchanji Ward is dedicated to advancing peace, and we call on all stakeholders to uphold principles of justice, equity, and human rights in all endeavors,” the statement emphasized.
“Despite our steadfast commitment to fostering peace, we are witnessing the rights breach of one of our essential members.
“The apprehension of Mr. Salem Mela is disconcerting, and even more disquieting is the detention of his expectant wife and their six children.
“While we recognize the role of security agencies in upholding law and order, the arrest of innocent family members uninvolved in any alleged activities is entirely unjustifiable and contrary to the ideals of justice and human rights,” the committee expressed.