The Presidential aspirant for the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Garba Muhammad, has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the National Security Adviser (NSA), and other security agencies to expedite efforts to rescue ten journalists who were kidnapped en route to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for the Super Eagles’ match against Libya on Friday.

Reports indicate that the journalists, travelling to cover the World Cup qualifying match, were ambushed by armed criminals.

Although eleven journalists were initially taken, one managed to escape, leaving ten still in captivity.

Garba Muhammad commended the federal government for the progress made in combating banditry and terrorism but urged a swift response to secure the journalists’ release and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

“We recognise and appreciate the government’s ongoing efforts in the fight against banditry and terrorism, but the IGP, NSA, and other security agencies must act promptly for the immediate release of these journalists, just as they did in the case of the two previously kidnapped journalists,” Muhammad emphasised.

The journalists remaining in captivity include camera operators Kola Omoniyi, Chike, Iyke, Buchi, Everett, Oliseh, Abiodun, and Precious.