NUJ Demands Immediate Release Of Abducted Channels TV Reporter
- Wants better pay, protection for journalists
- Kidnappers demand N30m for his freedom
BY EDMOND ODOK – The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for the immediate release of the Channels Television reporter, Joshua Rogers, abducted on Thursday night from his residence in Rumuosi, Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
A statement signed by Comrade Chris Isiguzo, the NUJ National President, said the Union “is deeply concerned about the escalating insecurity faced by journalists and media practitioners in the country.”
The statement, which declared that the “NUJ stands in solidarity with Joshua Rogers and his family”, further stated thus; “We demand immediate action to secure his safe return. It is distressing that individuals involved in the vital work of informing the public have become targets of criminal activities.”
In appealing to the Rivers State Government and relevant security agencies to prioritize efforts towards securing the safe and immediate release of Rogers, the Union further said; “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.”
Meanwhile, available reports showed that Rogers was taken by unknown gunmen around 9 pm after returned from an official assignment at the Government House.
The reports said the abductors forcefully intercepted him and took him away in a Channels Television-branded vehicle to an undisclosed location.
Following the abduction, the kidnappers contacted his wife, demanding a ransom of N30 million for his release.