By COLLINS YAKUBU-HAMMER

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for the immediate release of the kidnapped Channels TV reporter, Joshua Rogers.

Dr Chris Iziguzo, NUJ President, made the call while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.

Rogers was abducted from his residence in Rumuosi, Port-Harcourt on Thursday night.

He was seized by gunmen around 9:00 p.m. as he returned from an official assignment at the Government House.

The criminals intercepted him and forcefully took him away in a Channels Television-branded vehicle.

“Following the abduction, the abductors contacted his wife, demanding a ransom of N30 million for his release.

“The NUJ is deeply concerned about 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.

“The NUJ hereby appeals to the Government of Rivers and relevant security agencies to prioritize efforts towards securing the safe and immediate release of Rogers,” he said.

The NUJ president emphasised the need to ensure journalists’ well-being and safety during this critical time.

Isiguzo underscored the gravity of the situation and stressed the need for concerted action to address the rising threats against journalists across Nigeria.

“We urge for swift and effective measures to be taken to secure Rogers’ freedom and bring an end to this distressing ordeal.

“The NUJ stands in solidarity with Rogers, his family, Channels TV and we demand immediate action to secure his safe return,” Isiguzo said. (NAN)