April 12, 2026
SUNTV Global Channel | Human Rights
A family in Bauchi State has been thrown into distress following the arrest of a man, identified as Rabiu Habibu Wanka, by operatives of the Department of State Services just a day before his daughter’s wedding.
According to family sources, the incident occurred on January 8, 2026, shortly after Wanka observed Zuhr prayers in Kuntum, Bauchi Local Government Area.
Witnesses said armed operatives stormed the area, masked him in the presence of his children and neighbours, and whisked him away without explanation—turning what was meant to be a joyful family celebration into a moment of fear and confusion.
“He was taken right in front of his children. Nobody told us why,” a distraught relative said.
The situation reportedly escalated hours later when about 20 DSS operatives allegedly raided his residence without presenting a search warrant. Family members claimed the operatives destroyed food items and seized several personal belongings, including mobile phones, ATM cards, identification documents, and a laptop.
The once lively home, filled with wedding preparations, was said to have been left in disarray, with relatives overwhelmed by shock and grief.
The following day, January 9, the family’s ordeal reportedly continued as security operatives returned and took several members in for questioning. They were held for hours before being released later that evening following the intervention of a community leader.
Since the arrest, the family says they have been denied access to Wanka and remain unaware of his whereabouts or the allegations against him.
“We have tried everything to get information, but no one is telling us anything,” a family member said.
In response, the family has filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit at the Federal High Court in Bauchi, seeking his immediate and unconditional release, as well as compensation for alleged violations.
However, they say the Department of State Services has yet to respond to the court application, further deepening uncertainty around the case.
The incident has raised serious concerns about due process, alleged abuse of power, and the protection of fundamental human rights.
SUNTV Global Channel reports that the case is likely to draw increased public attention as legal proceedings unfold and calls for accountability grow louder.
