NTA reporter regains freedom — after five days in captivity

Chidiebere Onyia, a reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) who was abducted by gunmen in Port Harcourt, has regained her freedom.

Onyia was kidnapped on Tuesday while driving home from work.

Following the news of the incident, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ), had called for her immediate release.

According to NAN, Nnamdi Omoni, Rivers state police command spokesman, confirmed Onyia’s release in a statement on Sunday.

He said she was released by her abductors in the early hours of Sunday, adding that she is currently receiving medical attention.

“The Rivers Police Command is pleased to announce the unconditional release of Chidiebere Onyia, a reporter with NTA Port Harcourt, who was kidnapped last week (Tuesday),” Omoni said.

“Her release was made possible due to the intense pressure mounted by the command as directed by the authority.

“Her abductors, on seeing the red flag and oblivious of the fact that we were closing in on them, however, bowed to the seeming pressure and abandoned her, from where she was sighted and rescued.

“She is currently receiving medical attention and will be debriefed and released to reunite with her waiting family.”

The spokesman said at the time of her abduction, the command had assured her family, the NUJ, and civil society organisations of her safe release.

“The command remains resolute in providing the enabling environment for all to realise their full potential in the state,” he added.