Information reaching THISDAY has it that the kidnapped Channels TV reporter has regained his freedom.
Recall that the reporter Joshua Rogers was kidnapped on Thursday by unknown gunmen at about 9pm in front of his residence at Rumuosi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers state.
It was also gathered that the victim, a native of Andoni LGA, was kidnapped on his way from office in front of his residence and his official black GAC GS4 SUV was also taken by his abductors.
A source close to the victim had revealed that the operatives of the police command, State Security Service, Navy, Army and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps had commenced action to rescue the journalist.
In reaction, Andoni, Opobo/Nkoro Journalists Forum had condemned the kidnap of the member, Joshua Rogers.
In a statement jointly signed by its President, Dr Philip Owajioboro, Secretary, Allwell Ene, the Forum frown at the incident, insisting that his abduction was not only barbaric but a threat to journalism practice in Nigeria.
The group called on the “Nigeria Police and indeed all security agencies to without delay ensure the release of our member Joshua Rogers unhurt,” just as they also urged his abductors to release him unconditionally without delay.
Similarly, national body of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) had called for immediate release of Rogers.
In a statement by its national President, Chris Isiguzo, revealed that “The kidnappers contacted his wife, demanding a ransom of N30 million for his release.”
The NUJ expressed concern about the escalating insecurity faced by journalists and media practitioners in the country, saying that “It is distressing that individuals involved in the vital work of informing the public have become targets of criminal activities”.
The union however, appealed to the Rivers State Government and relevant security agencies to prioritise efforts towards securing the safe and immediate release of Joshua Rogers.
“The NUJ underscores the gravity of the situation and stresses the need for concerted action to address the rising threats against journalists across Nigeria. We urge swift and effective measures to be taken to secure Joshua Rogers’ freedom and bring an end to this distressing ordeal,” Isiguzo added.
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
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