Missing Vanguard reporter: NUJ, IPC demand probe

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, FCT council, has called on security agencies to unravel the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Vanguard Newspaper reporter, Tordue Salem.

The reporter, who is attached to the House of Representatives, has not been seen since Wednesday, October 13.

In a statement jointly signed by the council’s chairman, Emmanuel Ogbeche; and Secretary, Ochiaka Ugwu, the union said Salem’s disappearance was unacceptable, calling on the security agencies to find him.

The statement read in part, “For all us journalists in Abuja, we have been on edge these past few days over the mysterious disappearance of our colleague and friend, Mr Tordue Salem.

“It is worrying that an adult will simply vanish into thin air without a trace. This is unacceptable and we urge the police and Department of State Service rise up to the occasion and provide answers to this troubling situation.”

Also, the International Press Centre said Salem’s disappearance should be accorded high priority by the police and other security agencies.

IPC’s Executive Director, Mr Lanre Arogundade, in a statement said, “In a country where the rights of journalists and media professionals are continuously violated, concerted efforts by relevant stakeholders are necessary to ensure that Mr Salem returns to his family and safely, and that the safety of other journalists and media professionals is guaranteed.”