By Joke Kujenya
A N30 MILLION ransom is being demanded for the release of Joshua Rogers, a dedicated reporter with Channels Television in Rivers State.
He was abducted on Thursday night near his residence in Rumuosi, within the bounds of Obio/Akpor local government area, according to media reports.
Rogers, known got his unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity, had been diligently covering the inauguration of a vital healthcare facility in Ogba/Egbeme/Ndoni local government area.
The facility, donated by the former governor of the state, Peter Odili, is said to be a crucial asset for the community.
However, tragedy struck as Rogers was returning home from his official assignment, becoming a victim of abduction.
Joseph Johnson, Commissioner of Information in Rivers State, expressed shock at the development, stating that he had, a few hours before, interacted with Rogers during the event.
Johnson pledged to investigate the matter further and provide updates to concerned parties.
Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the police in Rivers State, is yet to comment on the abduction, a stance that adds to the growing concern surrounding Roger’s safety.
In the meantime, the abductors have reportedly made contacts with Roger’s family, demanding a staggering ransom of N30 to facilitate his safe return home, an action which is said to have heightened the precarious situation faced by journalists in some regions of the country as well as the urgent need for measures to ensure the safety of journalists in the face of professional hazards.
According to other reports, the circumstances surrounding Roger’s abduction raise serious concerns about the security situation in Rivers State, especially as it concerns the safety of journalists carrying out their civic, professional duties.
Already, his wife, family, media organizations as well as notable media professional bodies are demanding the unconditional and safe release of Joshua Rogers, unharmed, as they have urged for collective rallying behind a professional colleague in this difficult time.
