Anambra NMA confirms release of kidnapped Neurosurgeon
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Dr Mbanugo was kidnapped in front of his hospital at Uruagu, Nnewi, on the evening of Thursday, 30 October 2025.
By Ayox Ojo
The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Anambra State, Dr Princeton Okam, has confirmed the release of a neurosurgeon with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo, who was abducted last week.
Okam said the doctor was freed shortly before the expiration of the association’s 72-hour ultimatum to the State Government over the abduction of Mbanugo,
Dr Mbanugo was kidnapped in front of his hospital at Uruagu, Nnewi, on the evening of Thursday, 30 October 2025.
The NMA had on Sunday issued a 72-hour deadline for the government to ensure Dr Mbanugo’s safe release or face a total shutdown of medical services in the state.
“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.
Okam had earlier revealed that the kidnappers of the doctor demanded ₦100 million as ransom for his release.
However, he did not indicate if any ransom was paid to free the neurosurgeon.
Nevertheless, the NMA chairman expressed concern over the increasing cases of abductions targeting medical personnel, noting that doctors, who provide essential services despite poor remuneration, should not be subjected to such ordeals.
“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 lamented.
He urged urged government and security agencies to step up efforts to protect lives and property, especially for healthcare workers who are often required to respond to emergencies at night.
“We need a secure environment so that everyone can go about their legitimate duties without fear,” he said.
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