Abducted Channels TV reporter regains freedom — after 24 hours in captivity

Joshua Rogers, a reporter with Channels TV, has regained freedom from his abductors.

Rogers was abducted on Thursday night near his residence in Rumuosi, Obio/Akpor LGA of Rivers state.

The journalist was said to have covered the inauguration of a healthcare facility in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, as donated to the state government by Peter Odili, former governor of Rivers.

He was returning home when he was abducted.

Rogers’ abductors reportedly contacted the family and demanded N30 million in ransom.

NAN reports Charles Oporum, his colleague, as saying that the journalist regained his freedom around 10 pm on Friday unharmed.

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

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

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

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

It is, however, unclear whether he was rescued by security forces or if a ransom was paid for his release.