River state police command said it had launched a manhunt to ensure the prompt and safe release of a senior journalist and staff of the Rivers State Broadcasting Corporation, Port Harcourt, Mrs Priestba Nwokocha, who was kidnapped on Friday night by gunmen.
Mrs Nwokocha, who is the Director of News in the corporation, popularly called ‘Radio Rivers’, was allegedly abducted by the gunmen on the Ogonigba/Elelenwo Bridge leading to the old Slaughter Market in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area on Friday night.
According to the River State Command Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police, SP, Grace Iringe-Koko, who confirmed the incident, investigation had begun to apprehend the suspects and ensure the rescue of the journalist.
“The incident happened and we have begun investigation to ensure the woman is released and reunited with her family.
“As I speak to you, the Commissioner of Police, Emeka Nwonyi, has ordered the tactical team to ensure the suspects are arrested and brought to justice.”
Condemning the act, leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, River State Council, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Stanley Job, and Secretary, Ike Wigodo, described it as wicked and insensitive.
“She was abducted at a gunpoint at about 8pm after close of work along Ogonigba/ Elelenwo Bridge leading to the old Slaughter Market in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.”