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In response to a wave of public and media outrage, the Department of State Services (DSS) released two female journalists from Jay 101.9 FM, located in Jos, Plateau State, on Saturday night. They had been detained while covering the funeral of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, the deceased mother of the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe.
The two journalists, Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang, were reported missing by their station after being apprehended by security agents. Their arrest occurred due to a video report posted on Jay FM's social media channels, which depicted a confrontation between a cleric and security personnel during the funeral service.
As news of the missing journalists spread rapidly, causing significant unrest in Jos, the DSS was compelled to release them.
The station's management confirmed their release in a statement late Saturday, revealing that after several hours of uncertainty, the duo was found at the DSS office in Jos and has now regained their freedom.
“After confirming that the DSS was holding them, urgent efforts were made to secure their release. Although our initial attempts were unsuccessful, they were ultimately freed,” the management stated, signed by its Managing Director, Comrade Clinton Garuba.
Garuba strongly condemned the journalists' arrest, labeling it as illegal, undemocratic, and a violation of press freedom.
“This incident has once again highlighted the alarming issues of press freedom violations, human rights abuses, and the undermining of the rule of law by security agencies,” Garuba remarked.
The management of Jay FM asserted that their staff are professionals who were merely performing their duties, as well-trained journalists are ethically obligated to document incidents for public awareness and accountability.
They urged the DSS to uphold press freedom and operate within the legal framework, emphasizing that the press should not be viewed as an adversary of the state.
“We remind the agency that our nation is governed by civilian rule, not military dictatorship. Security agencies are meant to safeguard citizens, not to intimidate or abduct them.
“To those in power, we reiterate that press freedom is essential for democracy. When journalists are silenced, democracy fades into darkness,” the statement concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the journalists arrested?
The journalists were arrested for covering a funeral and posting a video report that showed a confrontation between a cleric and security personnel.
What actions did the station take following the arrest?
The station made frantic efforts to secure the journalists' release once it was confirmed that they were being held by the DSS.
What is the management's stance on press freedom?
The management condemned the arrest as a violation of press freedom and called on the DSS to respect the role of the press within the framework of the law.
