By Kamsi Anayo, Awka
A neurosurgeon with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, who was abducted last week in Anambra state, has regained his freedom.
Mbanugo was taken in front of his hospital at Uruagu, Nnewi, on the evening of Oct. 30.
His release was confirmed by the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Anambra State, Dr. Princeton Okam, who disclosed that the doctor was freed just before the association’s 72-hour ultimatum to the state government expired.
“We just finished a meeting, and if the doctor had not been released, all doctors would have shut down. Fortunately, we got a call from those in contact with the kidnappers that he has been released. I have also spoken to him and can confirm that he is stable,” Okam said.
The NMA had on Nov. 2 issued a 72-hour deadline to the state government to secure Mbanugo’s release or face a total withdrawal of medical services across Anambra.
Okam further revealed that the abductors initially demanded a ransom of N100 million but declined to disclose how much was eventually paid, citing security concerns.
He decried the growing wave of abductions targeting medical professionals in the state, stressing that doctors who continue to serve despite poor remuneration should not be exposed to such dangers.
“It’s worrisome that doctors, who are essential service providers, are being targeted by kidnappers. We are not well-paid to be victims of ransom demands.
“Many doctors are already leaving the country because of poor pay, and those of us who stay back should be spared by these criminals,” he said.
