A female resident medical doctor at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna State, Ganiyat Popoola, who was kidnapped by bandits in December 2023, has finally been released after being held captive for 10 months, News About Nigeria reports.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of NARD, Omoha Amobi, who confirmed her release, noting that she has been reunited with her family.
Recall that in December 2023, Popoola, who is a registrar in the Department of Opthalmology at the National Eye Centre, was abducted alongside her husband, Nurudeen Popoola, who is a military officer, and her nephew, Folaranmi Abdul-Mugni, who lives with them.
Dr. Popoola and her nephew regained their freedom on Wednesday evening, bringing an end to their terrifying ordeal in the hands of their abductors.
The kidnappers had earlier on demanded that N40 million be paid as ransom to secure their release.
The family raised and paid the ransom, after which they released her husband on March 8, 2024, and still refused to release Dr. Popoola and her nephew.
The kidnapping of the medical doctor and her family members highlights the growing concern about incessant abductions and ransom demands by kidnappers in the country.
The statement reads in part: “The president of NARD, Osundara Tope Zenith, is filled with immense joy and relief to inform you that Ganiyat Popoola, our dear colleague and resident doctor from National Eye Centre Kaduna, who was kidnapped and remained in captivity for more than ten months, has been released and reunited with her family.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a role in ensuring her safe return. The unwavering support, prayers, and contributions of all members and well-wishers have been invaluable in this challenging time.
“Let us continue to support one another as we work towards a safer and more secure environment for all.”
