NUJ Demands Immediate Release Of Kidnapped Channels TV Reporter

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is calling for the immediate release of Joshua Rogers, a reporter with Channels TV, who was abducted from his residence in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State.

Rogers was taken by unknown gunmen as he returned from an official assignment at the government house.

The assailants were said to have intercepted him and forcefully took him away in a Channels Television-branded vehicle.

Disturbingly, the kidnappers contacted his wife and demanded a ransom of N30 million for his release.

Reacting to the development, National President of NUJ, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, in a statement on Friday, said that the incident has highlighted the escalating insecurity faced by journalists and media practitioners in the country.

“It is distressing that individuals involved in the vital work of informing the public have become targets of criminal activities”, he said.

The NUJ however appealed to the Rivers State Government and relevant security agencies to prioritize efforts towards securing the safe and immediate release of Joshua Rogers.

“His well-being and safety during this critical time must be ensured, Dr Isiguzo said.

According to him, the gravity of this situation cannot be overlooked, and there is an urgent need for concerted action to address the rising threats against journalists across Nigeria.

He maintained that “swift and effective measures must 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, emphasizing the demand for immediate action to secure his safe return”, the statement further reads.