DSS Releases Female Journalists Arrested at APC Chairman’s Mother’s Funeral

The Department of State Services (DSS) on Saturday night released two female journalists of Jay 101.9 FM, Jos, Plateau State, who were detained while covering the funeral of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe.

The journalists, Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang, were reportedly arrested after posting a video on the station’s social media platforms showing a confrontation between a cleric and security operatives during the funeral service. Their sudden disappearance sparked outrage across the media and the public in Jos.

The station’s management confirmed their release in a statement, noting that the journalists were located at the DSS office in Jos after hours of uncertainty and have since regained their freedom.

“Upon confirming that the DSS was holding them, frantic efforts were made to secure their release. Although our efforts were initially rebuffed, they were eventually released,” the statement signed by Managing Director Comrade Clinton Garuba read.

Garuba condemned the arrest, describing it as illegal, undemocratic, and a blatant attempt to suppress press freedom. He emphasized that the journalists were only performing their professional duties, documenting events for public record and accountability.

The station called on the DSS to respect press freedom and operate within the law. “This nation is under civilian rule, not a military dictatorship. Security agencies exist to protect citizens, not intimidate or abduct them. The freedom of the press is the lifeblood of democracy. When journalists are silenced, democracy suffers,” the statement added.

The incident has reignited concerns about press freedom violations, human rights abuses, and the growing erosion of the rule of law by security agencies in Nigeria.