The Peace Committee of Chanchanji Ward in Taraba State has expressed deep concern and outright condemnation over the recent arrest and detention of its leader, Mr. Salem Mela, along with his pregnant wife and six children. The committee has demanded the immediate release of Mela’s family members, citing gross violation of their human rights and the principles of justice.
According to a statement signed by the Secretary of the Peace Committee, Solomon John Kulenkwagh, the arrest occurred in the early hours of Wednesday at approximately 1:20 AM, when a team of uniformed men suspected to be from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Army stormed Mela’s residence and took him and his family into custody.
“This unfortunate incident is not only a great concern but also a setback to our efforts in promoting peace and unity in the region,” Kulenkwagh said. “The arrest of innocent family members who have no involvement in any alleged activities is completely unjustifiable and goes against the principles of justice and human rights.”
The Peace Committee, formed in February with the mission to foster peace and unity among the five Tiv clans under Chanchanji Council Ward, has 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.
“We have contributed significantly to the improvement of security in our area, and it is unfortunate that our efforts are being undermined by the actions of security agencies,” Kulenkwagh lamented.
The committee has called on the relevant authorities to act swiftly in rectifying the situation, urging all stakeholders to uphold the values of justice, fairness, and respect for human rights in all actions.
“The ongoing detention of a pregnant woman and young children is not only inhumane but also an infringement upon their fundamental rights,” Kulenkwagh emphasized. “We demand that the family be informed of their whereabouts and well-being, and that they should not be subjected to further hardship.”
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups and community leaders, who have described the arrest as a gross violation of human rights and an affront to the principles of justice.
“We urge the authorities to release Mela’s family members immediately and ensure that their rights are respected,” said a human rights activist who preferred anonymity. “The use of security agencies to harass and intimidate innocent citizens is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms.”
The Taraba State Government has yet to comment on the incident, but sources indicate that efforts are being made to resolve the situation amicably.