Broadcast Journalist NonsoNkwa Kidnapped in Owerri

Imo State, Owerri – In a shocking incident that has raised concerns about press freedom and security in the region, Chinonso Uba, a renowned broadcast journalist known as NonsoNkwa, was abducted by armed men suspected to be operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The incident occurred in broad daylight on Thursday shortly after Uba had finished anchoring his morning programme on Ozisa FM, Owerri, at the premises of Assumpta Cathedral of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese.

Eyewitnesses said Uba was driving his SUV when he was ambushed by heavily armed masked men at the Holy Ghost College Secondary School junction. The assailants, operating in a Hilux vehicle, a Lexus 350, and another identified as ES 330, blocked his path, and after a brief struggle, they forcefully took him into one of their vehicles and sped off.

The journalist has been an outspoken critic of Governor Hope Uzodinma’s government, particularly in regard to the prevailing insecurity in Imo State. His abduction has raised fears of possible retaliation for his outspokenness.

Eyewitnesses reported that the gunmen appeared to be in official police or DSS attire, and they deliberately prevented people from recording the incident on video. Uba’s vehicle was left behind at the scene as onlookers attempted to intervene but were forced to retreat in the face of the attackers’ threat.

Rev Fr Raymond Nzereogu, the manager of Ozisa FM, confirmed the incident and stated that they were still trying to determine whether Uba was arrested or kidnapped. He added that they had reached out to the State Security Service, who denied any involvement, and were heading to the police to seek clarification.

The incident has sparked deep concern among fellow journalists, human rights advocates, and the public at large. There are fears that the attack on NonsoNkwa could be an attempt to stifle freedom of the press and silence voices critical of the state government’s handling of security issues.

As of now, there has been no official response from the Imo State Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye. Authorities are urged to launch a prompt and thorough investigation into Uba’s abduction to ascertain his whereabouts and ensure his safe return.

The incident underscores the need for greater protection of journalists and the importance of preserving press freedom in Nigeria. The safety and security of media professionals are paramount to upholding the principles of democracy and safeguarding citizens’ right to information and expression.