Lawyers Petition DSS Over Detention of Teen Faith Barnabas
Wholesome Attorneys, a Jos-based law firm, has filed a petition with the Department of State Services (DSS) concerning the detention of 17-year-old Faith Barnabas. This follows a Federal High Court judgment on July 6, 2026, which ordered her release to her mother, Mrs. Kumabe Zakari.
The petition, dated July 9, 2026, alleges that Faith was forcibly converted to Islam by Sadiq Ahmed Hussaini, with the involvement of the Bauchi State Shari’ah Commission. The lawyers claim this action violates the Bauchi State Child Protection Law, 2023.
Despite a court order, Faith was transferred to the Bauchi State Orphans and Vulnerable Children Agency (BASOVCA) instead of being returned to her mother. The petition states that Hussaini, who is facing trial for conspiracy and abduction, has access to Faith while her family does not.
The lawyers are urging the DSS to ensure compliance with the court's order for Faith's immediate reunification with her family.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Punch Newspapers. Read the original report below.
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