The Nigeria Union of Journalists has called for an urgent release of Joshua Rogers, a reporter with Channels TV, who was abducted from his residence in Rumuosi, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday night.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA gathered that Rogers was taken by unknown gunmen around 9 p.m. as he returned from an official assignment at the Government House.
The assailants intercepted him and forcefully took him away in a Channels Television-branded vehicle.
Following the abduction, the kidnappers contacted his wife, demanding a ransom of N30 million for his release.
According to a press statement signed by NUJ President Chris Isiguzo, the Union expresed deep concerned about the escalating insecurity faced by journalists and media practitioners in the country.
The statement partly read, “It is distressing that individuals involved in the vital work of informing the public have become targets of criminal activities.”
The NUJ appealed to the Rivers State Government and relevant security agencies to prioritise efforts towards securing the safe and immediate release of Joshua Rogers.
“We emphasize the importance of ensuring his well-being and safety during this critical time. 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.
The NUJ stands in solidarity with Joshua Rogers and his family, and we demand immediate action to secure his safe return,” the statement added.
