Kidnapped Kaduna medical doctor released after 10-Month captivity
Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a resident medical doctor at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna State, has been freed after spending 10 months in captivity. Kidnapped by bandits in December 2023, her release ends a protracted ordeal that underscored Nigeria’s ongoing concerns over abductions for ransom.
Dr. Popoola, a Registrar in Ophthalmology, was abducted alongside her husband, Nurudeen Popoola, a military officer, and her nephew, Folaranmi Abdul-Mugni. Initially, the kidnappers demanded a N40 million ransom, which was paid in March 2024, leading to her husband’s release. However, Dr. Popoola and her nephew remained in captivity until Wednesday evening, when they were finally set free.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) President, Dr. Tope Osundara, expressed profound relief over their release, thanking all who contributed to their safe return. “We are immensely grateful to everyone who supported efforts for their freedom,” Osundara stated.
Dr. Popoola’s abduction has drawn attention to the escalating problem of kidnappings and ransom demands targeting professionals across Nigeria.
