Posted on: Fri 15-11-2024

The President of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), Dr Abubakar Dele, has confirmed that a member of the association, Dr Ganiyat Popoola, who was abducted on December 27, 2023, regained her freedom after 10 months in captivity.

Dr Popoola is currently undergoing medical examinations to assess her health status following her ordeal. Speaking with The Guardian, Dele stated: “I am not saying she is unwell, but given the lengthy period she spent in captivity, it is necessary to conduct thorough medical checks before she resumes her normal activities.”

While expressing gratitude to various groups, especially the media, for their efforts in securing her release, Dele declined to comment on whether a ransom was paid. “What is paramount to us is her release and that she is alive. Every profession has its hazards, which was the case for our colleague. We are thankful to God for sparing her life,” he said.

Popoola, a registrar in the Department of Ophthalmology at the National Eye Centre, Kaduna, was kidnapped alongside her husband, Squadron Leader Nurudeen Popoola, and her nephew, Folaranmi Abdul-Mugniy.

Her husband was released after negotiations on March 8, 2024, but she and Abdul-Mugniy remained in captivity until October 30, 2024. Dele hinted that Popoola might share her experience with the public when she is ready, emphasising that it would be her decision. He also called for improved security measures to protect medical professionals both at work and at home to prevent them from becoming easy targets for kidnappers.

By Odun Edward, Ilorin

Guardian News

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