Sundiata Post – Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF) has called for the unconditional timely release of abducted Kaduna journalists Abdulgafar Alabelewe of the Nation Newspapers and Abdulraheem Aodu of the Blueprint Newspapers.
The two journalists, their wives, and three children were abducted when kidnappers stormed their separate but close houses at about 10:30 pm on Saturday, July 6.
However, Abdulraheem Aodu’s wife and one of Alabelewe’s sons were released some hours later.
The development left many wondering why journalists and their family members were the targets in Danhonu 2, a community with several houses that have survived several bandit attacks.
Press Freedom Manager, AMDF, Mrs. Zhiroh Jatau, in a statement, described the development as heartbreaking and demoralising considering the pivotal role of journalists in society.
“AMDF is deeply distressed and outraged by this heinous act which represents a grave threat to press freedom and the fundamental rights of journalists to operate without fear of violence or intimidation.
“Journalists play an indispensable role in our society by informing the public, holding the powerful accountable, and contributing to the democratic process. The abduction of our colleagues is not just an attack on individuals but an assault on the entire journalism profession and the principles of freedom of expression.
“We express our deepest solidarity with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kaduna Council, the affected journalists, and their families during this extremely challenging time.
“We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all kidnapped journalists.
“It is imperative that the authorities act swiftly and decisively to ensure their safe return and bring the perpetrators to justice”, Zhiroh
