UNIUYO professor kidnapped in imo regaineds freedom

Professor Herbert Batta of UNIUYO, known for his critical social commentary, has been released after being kidnapped in Owerri, Imo State, prompting relief among colleagues and students.

Professor Herbert Batta, a distinguished academic in the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies at the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), has been released after being kidnapped in Owerri, Imo State.

Sources confirmed that Prof. Batta, known for his critical views on socio-economic issues and contributions as a social commentator, was abducted on Tuesday afternoon while returning from a trip outside Akwa Ibom State. The incident prompted immediate concern, with one of his former students raising the alarm on social media that evening.

The student posted:
“Professor Herbert Batta is reported to have been kidnapped at Owerri in Imo State while returning from a trip. Our security agencies must intensify their efforts. He has been a remarkable mentor to generations of communication scholars.”

Thankfully, news of his release broke on Wednesday. Professor Charles Obot, a colleague from the same faculty, shared the update, stating that Prof. Batta had contacted him from a police station in Owerri after regaining his freedom.

“Professor Herbert Batta, who was kidnapped yesterday in Owerri, has just spoken with me from a police station where he is currently safe. He asked me to inform the public on his behalf,” Prof. Obot said.

The development has been met with great relief and celebration among students and staff at both the Nwaniba main campus and the Ikpa Road campus of UNIUYO.

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Sources: ALLSCHOOL, LEADERSHIP