Media Rights Agenda (MRA), a media advocacy group, has issued a strong condemnation of the abduction of two journalists and their family members, calling it a “heinous act” that highlights the escalating dangers faced by journalists in Nigeria.
In a statement released today, MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, Ayode Longe, urged the Federal Government and security agencies to prioritize the journalists’ safe and immediate release.
The two journalists, Abdulgafar Alabelewe of The Nation newspaper and AbdulRaheem Abdu of Blueprint newspaper, were abducted alongside their wives and children on Saturday, July 6, 2024. The incident occurred in the Dahjonu community of Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State, when approximately 15 armed men stormed their homes.
The attack on the journalists, Longe stressed, is an attack on the collective right of Nigerians to information and freedom of expression. He emphasized the crucial role journalists play in a democratic society, holding power accountable and informing citizens.
MRA called upon the government to fulfil its constitutional obligation to protect all citizens, including journalists, and to uphold its commitments under regional and international agreements to ensure their safety. The organization demanded a swift and thorough investigation into the abductions, urging that the perpetrators be brought to justice.
Longe further urged the government to demonstrate its commitment to protecting journalists by implementing concrete measures to prevent future attacks, stressing the need for adequately equipped and trained security forces.
MRA expressed solidarity with the families of the abducted journalists, calling upon all Nigerians to demand their safe return.
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