Six of the 11 journalists who were kidnapped while traveling to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for the Super Eagles’ match against Libya have been rescued by security forces. The group was abducted on Wednesday while traveling through Isseke, near Ihiala Local Government Area in Anambra State.
Tragically, one of the journalists was shot dead during the attack by the kidnappers.
Confirming the incident, Anambra State police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated, “Joint security forces have successfully rescued six members of the media crew abducted along the Isseke-Orlu Road in Ihiala. Operations are still ongoing for the possible rescue of a seventh crew member. Further developments will be communicated.”
In response, the National Secretariat of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) stated Ikenna Okonkwo, urging state chapters to provide the full list and identities of their members who were traveling to cover the Super Eagles’ qualifying match. The SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, along with the National Executive Committee, is actively monitoring the situation and prioritizing the welfare of its members.
The association also advised its members to keep their local secretariats informed of their movements, especially during critical times like this.
