A SuperSport production team faced a harrowing experience while on their way to cover an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Libya’s Mediterranean Knights.
The crew of seven was reportedly abducted during their journey from Lagos to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Tragic Details Emerge
The distressing news was first shared by Colin Udoh, a well-respected football journalist and former media officer for the Super Eagles, on his X page.
He revealed that one crew member sadly lost their life during this incident.
A prominent South African anti-crime activist also echoed these details on social media, stating that the crew was attacked in Anambra, Nigeria, as they traveled to cover the AFCON qualifier match.
While six members of the crew were rescued, it was confirmed that one technical crew member had been shot and killed.
The Crew’s Route and Circumstances
The SuperSport team chose to travel by road to Uyo, but the driver opted for a shortcut through an area known for its dangers, likely to save on fuel costs.
This decision put them in harm’s way, ultimately leading to the kidnapping.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Reports from the Punch Newspaper indicate that six of the sports journalists were rescued by police in Anambra State after their abduction along the Isseke-Orlu Road.
Tochukwu Ikenga, a spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, confirmed the rescue and mentioned that efforts are still underway to locate the remaining journalist.
“The joint security forces have rescued six members of the media crew who were abducted while traveling from Lagos to Uyo,” he stated.
“Operations are ongoing to rescue the last journalist and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
Upcoming Match Amidst Uncertainty
As this unsettling situation unfolds, it’s important to note that the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match between Nigeria and Libya is still scheduled to take place on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
The developments surrounding this incident raise concerns about the safety of journalists and crews in conflict-prone areas.
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