A group of sports journalists traveling from Anambra to Uyo to cover the Nigeria vs. Libya African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier have been kidnapped by gunmen in the Isseke community, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The abduction occurred on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, while the journalists were en route to the match, scheduled to take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
According to reports, about 11 journalists were taken hostage, with nine of them later rescued.
Tragically, one journalist, identified as Kola, was confirmed dead.
As of Thursday, four of the victims remain in captivity, prompting urgent rescue efforts by security forces.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, confirmed the rescue of six journalists, saying, “Joint security forces have successfully rescued six members of the media crew who were abducted while traveling from Lagos to Uyo along the Isseke-Orlu Road in Ihiala.”
Meanwhile, operations are ongoing to locate and rescue the remaining captives.
Security forces are on high alert, and authorities have urged nearby communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement.
Furthermore, the government has been called upon to tighten security around the area to ensure the safety of residents and visitors, especially following this disturbing event.