The Anambra State Police Command has rescued six journalists kidnapped along the Isseke-Orlu Road in Ihiala.
The six sports journalists of a media crew were abducted while traveling from Lagos to Uyo to cover the Super Eagles match against Mediterranean Knights of Libya.
Confirming the incident to Akelicious, Police Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said joint security forces successfully rescued the crew while efforts are top gear to rescue of a seventh crew member.
There have been reported cases of kidnapping involving journalists in Anambra State.
Earlier, the National Secretariat of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) urged state leadership to provide accurate information.
This was detailed in a statement issued by SWAN Secretary-General Ikenna Okonkwo, which was seen by this reporter.
“Following the rumored kidnapping of some sports writers said to be on their way to Uyo to cover the Super Eagles match against Mediterranean Knights of Libya, we urge the State Chapter Leadership to immediately provide the National Secretariat with any necessary information regarding any SWAN member who might be involved,” the statement read.
“Currently, SWAN President Mr. Isaiah Benjamin and the National Executive Committee, committed to the welfare and well-being of members, have been inundated with calls about the situation, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
“Consequently, it is imperative for the various chapters’ leadership to inform members of the need to consistently communicate their official movements to the State SWAN Secretariats, especially in times like these in Nigeria. This measure will help the chapters’ leadership keep track of members regularly. “Please be assured of our President’s highest regards as always,” the statement added.
By Ogemdi Ozoemenam, Awka
