THE sports writers who were abducted earlier today on their way to cover the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match between Nigeria and Libya have been set free.
The journalists, whose names are withheld, were abducted somewhere in Imo State by gunmen as they travelled to Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, for the match scheduled for tomorrow.
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) announced this afternoon that the journalists had been released, apparently with the help of security forces.
In a statement signed by SWAN Secretary-General, Ikenna Okonkwo, and made available to Naija Times, SWAN said: “We want to inform our teeming members across Nigeria and beyond that some of the sports journalists, who were earlier kidnapped on their way to cover the first leg of 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Super Eagles and Mediterranean Knights of Libya in Uyo, have been released.
“The President of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, and indeed SWAN National Secretariat, after making necessary contacts immediately our colleagues were abducted around Anambra/Imo axis, have been reliably informed of their release following pressure by the proactive Nigerian security operatives on the kidnappers.
“SWAN therefore commends the security operatives, particularly the Nigerian Army and Police for their prompt action which ensured that up to six of the held sports journalists regained their freedom with efforts to get the remaining person freed.
“The rescued media practitioners, mostly camera/photojournalists, are now on their way to either reunite with families or move on with other official duties.
“We urge our members to remain calm and without fear in the discharge of their professional duties while maintaining regular communication with the various SWAN state chapters’ leadership for any formal purposes.
“Also, be assured that the national leadership of SWAN is committed to your welfare and overall well-being with uttermost regards as always.”
