Nigeria: Police rescue sports journalists kidnapped on way to Super Eagles vs Libya match

Six sports journalists, kidnapped en route to Uyo to cover the Super Eagles’ African Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya, have been rescued by joint security forces in Anambra State, Soccernet.ng reports.

The abduction took place on the Isseke-Orlu Road in the Ihiala Local Government Area, a region long troubled by secessionist groups.

The journalists were part of an 11-member media crew traveling from Lagos to Akwa Ibom State when they were ambushed in the early hours of Thursday, October 10. The crew was on their way to cover Nigeria’s match against Libya, scheduled for Friday.

Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the rescue and revealed that six of the eleven abducted journalists had been freed.

“Joint security forces have rescued six members of the media crew who were abducted while travelling from Lagos to Uyo,” Ikenga said in a statement to The Punch. 

Efforts to locate and rescue the seventh journalist are ongoing.

“Operations are still ongoing for the possible rescue of the seventh crew member. Further development shall be communicated,” added Ikenga.

The abduction occurred in a region under the influence of secessionist groups, making the area particularly dangerous for travellers.

Despite this, the police have expressed their readiness and determination to apprehend the culprits and ensure justice is served.

The Super Eagles will trade tackles with Libya’s Meditteranean Knights at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday. The match kicks off at 5 pm Nigerian time.