Suspected armed robbers have attacked a private radio station, Rhythm 94.7 FM, in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, carting away valuables including mobile phones, recording devices, and other operational equipment belonging to staff on duty.
The incident reportedly occurred around 4:40 p.m. on Saturday at the station’s premises in Swali community. Sources said the attackers returned to the facility the following day. No casualties were reported, but staff members were said to be left traumatised by the invasion.
The Bayelsa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the attack, describing it as a violation of press freedom and an assault on the media community in the state.
In a statement jointly signed by the NUJ State Chairman, Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, and Secretary, Comrade Stanley Imgbi, the union called on security agencies, particularly the Commissioner of Police, to launch an investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The union further appealed for enhanced security around the radio station, urging the deployment of a patrol team to the area due to its isolated location.
They noted that other strategic locations in Yenagoa already benefit from such security measures and that extending similar protection to the media house would help prevent further attacks.