Gunmen Invade Popular Radio Station During Live Broadcast in Bayelsa State

Gunmen suspected to be armed robbers stormed the premises of Rhythm 94.7 FM in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, during a live broadcast over the weekend, making away with mobile phones, recorders, and other essential broadcast equipment belonging to on-duty staff. The incident occurred around 4:40 p.m. on Saturday at the station’s Swali community location and shockingly, the assailants returned the following day.

Although no casualties were reported, staff members at the station are reportedly shaken by the ordeal. The Bayelsa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly condemned the attack. In a statement jointly signed by Council Chairman Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha and Secretary Comrade Stanley Imgbi, the NUJ described the raid as a violation of press freedom and a direct assault on the media community in the state.

The union called on the Bayelsa State Police Command to urgently investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice. It also urged the Commissioner of Police to deploy a patrol unit to the area, citing the station’s isolated location and the need for improved security.