Kidnapped Channels TV reporter released

Channels TV reporter Joshua Rogers

Channels TV reporter Joshua Rogers, who was abducted from his home in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital on Thursday, has been released.

Mr Rogers was released around 10 p.m. on Friday unharmed.

He had only returned from an official assignment at the Government House, his place of duty, when gunmen pounced on him and took him away in a Channels TV-branded vehicle.

His colleague Charles Oporum confirmed the news of his release in the late hours of Friday.

“Yes, he has been released about an hour ago, and has reunited with his family,” Mr Oporum said.

The management of the television station also confirmed Mr Rogers’ release in a brief statement.

Channels TV reporter kidnapped in Rivers

“The statement reads: “Channels Television reporter, Joshua Rogers, who was abducted last night in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has been freed.

“We thank our viewers and all those who expressed concern over the unfortunate incident.”

A video showing Rogers celebrating with his family after he regained his freedom.

However, it remains unclear whether he was rescued by security forces or if ransom was paid for his release.

The abductors were said to have contacted his wife, demanding a ransom of N30 million for his release.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Friday night called for the immediate release of the kidnapped reporter.