The management of Jay 101.9 FM in Jos has raised alarm over the disappearance of two of its reporters, Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang, who went missing after covering the funeral of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
The journalists were at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters in Jos on Saturday, October 4, 2025, to cover the high-profile funeral attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other dignitaries.
According to a statement issued by the station, it is being alleged that the reporters were arrested by security operatives following a video posted on Jay FM’s social media platforms. The video reportedly showed a face-off between a cleric and some security agents at the church premises.
“The management is trying to verify which of the security agencies are holding them and their location,” the statement read.
The station stressed that it stands by its report on the confrontation between the cleric and the security agents during the funeral service, describing its coverage as accurate and in line with professional standards.
Meanwhile, Jay FM has formally invited journalists and stakeholders to a press briefing over what it described as the “abduction” of its two staff members.
In a letter signed by its Managing Director/CEO, Comrade Clinton Garuba, the station announced that the briefing will take place on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Jay FM conference hall, No. 14 Akila Machunga Street, behind the National Library, Jos.
“The briefing will focus on the disappearance of 2 of our journalists sent to cover the visit of the President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to Jos. Your presence will be kindly appreciated,” the invitation read.
Jay FM urged authorities and the public to intervene in ensuring the safety and immediate release of the missing reporters.
The development has sparked concern within media circles, with many journalists and rights advocates calling for transparency from security agencies and protection for press freedom in Nigeria.
As of the time of filing this report, the whereabouts of Ruth Marcus and Keshia Jang remain unknown.
