Relief has come to the Nigerian sports media community as the Anambra State Police Command announced the rescue of six sports journalists who were kidnapped by unidentified gunmen in the Isseke community, Ihiala Local Government Area.
The positive news came on Thursday after a swift response by the police, following reports that the journalists had been abducted on Wednesday.
According to the State Police Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the rescue was made possible by a joint security operation, launched after authorities intercepted critical information on the kidnapping.
The journalists were reportedly on their way to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to cover the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 qualifying match against Libya’s Mediterranean Knights, scheduled for Friday, October 11, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
Initial reports indicated that 11 media personnel were traveling in a bus through Isseke when the abduction occurred. While six of them have been rescued, one journalist is feared dead, and four others remain in captivity.
A police source confirmed that two policemen were also abducted during the incident, with one reportedly killed and his body burned in Isseke. The other officer was later found dead in Awo Idemili.
An eyewitness recounted the ordeal: “On Wednesday, some armed hoodlums hijacked a bus traveling through Isseke. The victims seemed lost, and that’s where the attack occurred. We later learned they were journalists. Two policemen were also taken, and one was killed and burnt in the market square.”
SP Ikenga confirmed the rescue of six journalists but withheld comment on the deaths of the two officers. “We intercepted information on Wednesday and launched a joint operation immediately. So far, six members of the media crew have been rescued. Operations are still ongoing to rescue the remaining victims.”
SWAN Praises Security Forces’ Swift Response:
In response, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) expressed gratitude to the security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army and Police, for their rapid intervention.
In a statement by SWAN Secretary-General Ikenna Okonkwo, the association assured its members that every effort is being made to secure the release of the remaining hostages.
SWAN President Isaiah Benjamin, alongside the national leadership, is in contact with relevant authorities to ensure the safe return of the missing journalists.
The statement also commended the proactive pressure applied by security agencies on the kidnappers, leading to the release of the rescued journalists, many of whom are camera operators and photojournalists.
SWAN encouraged its members to continue performing their duties without fear while maintaining close communication with state chapter leaderships for updates.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of its members as efforts continue to free the remaining abducted journalists.
