MRA Urges FG to Secure Release of Journalists Kidnapped in Kaduna

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

A media advocacy group, Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has called for the release of two Kaduna-based journalists who were kidnapped along with their wives and children last Saturday night. 

MRA expressed grave concern over the abductions and urged the Federal Government, as well as Security and Law Enforcement Agencies, to take swift action to ensure their safe return. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija reports that the group highlighted the responsibility of the Government and Security Agencies to protect journalists and media workers. 

The incident occurred on the night of July 6, 2024, when around 15 armed men invaded the Dahjonu Community in Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and kidnapped Mr. Abdulgafar Alabelewe of The Nation newspaper and Mr. AbdulRaheem Abdu of Blueprint newspaper, along with their families.

MRA's Deputy Executive Director, Ayode Longe, stated in Lagos that “The kidnapping of these two journalists and their families is a heinous act that highlights the increasing dangers faced by journalists in Nigeria and the urgent need for the Federal Government to ensure their safety. 

"We unequivocally condemn this abduction and call on the Federal Government, along with all relevant security and law enforcement agencies, to take all necessary measures for their immediate and safe release."

"The Government must also act swiftly and decisively to bring the perpetrators of this despicable crime to justice.” MRA emphasized that journalist safety is crucial for preserving media freedom and protecting human rights. 

“Journalists play a vital role in informing the public, holding power to account, and fostering a democratic society."

"Noting that any attack on them is an attack on the collective right of Nigerians to information and freedom of expression," Longe added.

The statement highlighted that, according to Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, the security of all Nigerians, including journalists, is the primary purpose of Government. 

It also emphasized that the Government has obligations under various regional and international agreements to which Nigeria is a signatory to ensure journalists' safety and thoroughly investigate any attacks against them, and bring the perpetrators to justice. 

MRA urged the Government to reaffirm its commitment to journalists' safety by taking concrete steps to protect media professionals from threats, violence, and other forms of attacks. 

The urgent demands by the Media Rights Advocacy group from the FG includes ensuring that security agencies are adequately equipped and trained to respond to such incidents and implementing a clear and effective strategy for preventing future abductions and attacks on journalists. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija further gathered that the statement also expressed MRA’s solidarity with the families of Mr. Alabelewe and Mr. Abdu during this incredibly difficult time and urged all Nigerians to join in demanding the safe return of the journalists and their families.