The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FCT Council, has called for the immediate release of kidnapped correspondent with the Punch Newspapers, Okechukwu Nnodim
Nnodim was allegedly kidnapped by four gunmen in his Abuja home who gained access to his residence by scaling his fence after firing several gunshots in the air.
In a statement on Friday, jointly signed by NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Emmanuel Ogbeche and Secretary, Ochiaka Ugwu, the union condemns the heinous act in totality and calls for the unconditional release of Nnodim for him to be reunited with his family and colleagues.
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The NUJ said it is unacceptable that a journalist is abducted and held for whatever reason, noting that a fundamental pre-requisite for a free media is that journalists be allowed to move freely in their efforts to gather and transmit information.
The journalists body says it is time journalists stopped being endangered species for doing their constitutional duties and it is unfortunate that other forms of harassment against the press are becoming frequent.
The NUJ therefore urges security agencies to do all they can to ensure that Nnodim and all those held by kidnappers and bandits are rescued and the perpetrators are brought to justice.
( Editor: Omor Bazuaye)
