BREAKING: Secret Police DSS Detains Taraba Methodist Pastor For Weeks Despite Alleged N15million For Release, Fails To Disclose Offence
The pastor, according to sources within the church, was picked up at about 2am on February 22, 2026, at his residence under circumstances they described as “shocking and unlawful.”
There is growing outrage in Taraba State following the continued detention of a cleric of the Global Methodist Church, Reverend Beziel, weeks after he was allegedly arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in a midnight raid.
The pastor, according to sources within the church, was picked up at about 2am on February 22, 2026, at his residence under circumstances they described as “shocking and unlawful.”
A church member, who identified himself as Ruhania Idris, raised the alarm over the continued detention, alleging that despite efforts made to secure the cleric’s freedom, he remains behind bars.
“Our pastor, Reverend Beziel, was taken from his home in the dead of night by DSS operatives without prior notice or explanation. Since then, he has been held for weeks without any clear charges brought against him,” Idris said.
He further claimed that a sum of N15 million was allegedly paid in a bid to facilitate the pastor’s release, but that the effort has yielded no result.
“We were made to believe that paying N15 million would secure his freedom, but even after raising and paying the money, he is still in detention. This has left us confused, distressed and feeling completely helpless,” he added.
According to him, the cleric has now been transferred to a correctional facility in Jalingo, the state capital, raising further concerns about due process and possible violations of his fundamental human rights.
“He is no longer even in DSS custody; he has been moved to the correctional centre in Jalingo, yet no one has told us what offence he committed. We are in the dark,” Idris said.
The situation took a more troubling turn when, according to the source, an official in the Taraba State government reportedly distanced the administration from the matter.
“The Secretary to the State Government allegedly told us plainly that he does not know anyone who can facilitate the pastor’s release. That statement has deepened our fears that justice may not be served,” Idris stated.
The incident has sparked concerns among residents and religious groups, who are now calling for transparency, accountability, and immediate clarification on the legal basis for the pastor’s arrest and prolonged detention.
Family members and church leaders are now appealing to civil society organisations, human rights activists, and the general public to intervene and demand the immediate release of Reverend Beziel or his prompt arraignment in court.
