A female resident medical doctor at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna State, Ganiyat Popoola, has been released after being held captive by bandits for 10 long months.
She was kidnapped alongside her husband, Nurudeen Popoola, a military officer, and her nephew, Folaranmi Abdul-Mugni, who lives with them, in December 2023.
The kidnapping occurred while the family was going about their daily activities, leaving their loved ones in a state of distress and uncertainty.
The kidnappers had demanded a whopping N40 million ransom, which was paid after intense negotiations.
However, despite receiving the ransom, the kidnappers only released Dr. Popoola’s husband on March 8, 2024, leaving her and her nephew in captivity. This prolonged period of captivity took a toll on the family, causing immense emotional distress and anxiety.
Dr. Popoola and her nephew were finally freed on Wednesday evening, bringing an end to their terrifying ordeal in the hands of their abductors. The news of their release was met with immense joy and relief from their loved ones, colleagues, and the medical community.
The President of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), Dr. Tope Osundara, expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to their safe return.
The kidnapping of Dr. Popoola and her family members highlights the growing concern about incessant abductions and ransom demands by kidnappers in the country.
The government and security agencies have been urged to take decisive action to address this issue and ensure the safety of citizens.
