By Yakubu Mamman
The Nigeria Union of Journalists has demanded the immediate rescue of two journalists and members of their families kidnapped in Kaduna.
The kidnapped journalists are Abdulgafar Alabelewe of the Nation Newspaper who also serves as the Correspondents chapel chairman of the NUJ, Kaduna State chapter and Abdulraheem Abdu, a journalist with Blueprint Newspaper.
In a statement signed by the National Secretary of the Union, Achike Chude, the incident was described as worrisome.
The statement dated July 8, 2024 “condemns in the strongest terms, the continuing violence and kidnappings in various parts of the country”.
It reads, “This latest act of perfidy which led to the abductions of two Journalists and members of their families in Kaduna state over the weekend have once more highlighted the general state of insecurity in the land and the continuing threat to the safety of journalists in the country.
“The kidnapped journalists include Abdulgafar Alabelewe, of the Nation Newspaper who also, serves as chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Kaduna State Council, and AbdulRaheem Abdu, a journalist with Blueprint newspaper.
“While acknowledging the enormous challenges faced by the country’s security apparatuses in their various theaters of security-related engagements, we nevertheless call on the authorities, especially the security agencies to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of the kidnappers and to ensure the safe recovery of the victims.
“The continuing epidemic of violence and death in our country must be brought to an end. The consequences have been devastating and have taken a huge toll on human lives and social infrastructure in many parts of the country.
“It appears that the best intent and approach by the federal government to reign in this hydra-headed monster is simply not working. A new approach is needed and must involve all the federating units in our country as well as our local governments.
“Ensuring the safety and well-being of the nation-state is the basis for progress and development.”
The NUJ commiserated with the families of the victims and prayed for the safe return of their loved ones.
“We equally stand in solidarity with the leadership and members of the NUJ, Kaduna State Council at this trying time,” it added.
