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In a concerning turn of events, Nten Ekpang, a Broadcast Journalist who hails from Cross River and works with Trust TV, was abducted on November 1, 2023, near Lokoja in Kogi State.
Ekpang was traveling back to Abuja after enjoying a family holiday in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, when the unfortunate incidence happened.
The news of his abduction was confirmed by Kevin Chianan, a fellow journalist and close family friend. According to reliable sources, the kidnappers have made contact with Ekpang’s family, demanding a substantial ransom of 10 million Naira for his safe release.
According to Mr. Chianan, prior to the incident, Mr. Ekpang had traveled to Akwa Ibom State on Sunday to drop off his family with his mother-in-law.
“I called him yesterday, Wednesday, in the morning, and he informed me that he was at the park, preparing to depart Uyo for Abuja.”
He continued, “I tried to reach him again around 6 pm to check if he had arrived in Abuja, but his phone was switched off. At around 9 pm, I received the distressing news of his kidnapping.”
Journalist in Abuja, where Ekpang practices, are urging the kidnappers to release Ekpang unharmed. They have also called upon the security agencies in Kogi State to take swift action to ensure his safe rescue.
Furthermore, there are reports indicating that the bus driver, who was involved in the incident, has been released by the kidnappers and is now collaborating with security forces to aid in the rescue efforts. As of now, the Nigeria Police, Kogi State Command, has not issued an official statement regarding this disturbing incident