Kidnapped Anambra Neurosurgeon Regains Freedom After Six Agonizing Days In Captivity

According to Ireporter Online, the Anambra-based neurosurgeon, Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, who was abducted last week in Nnewi, has regained his freedom six days after his ordeal.

Dr. Mbanugo, a consultant neurosurgeon with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, was reportedly kidnapped in front of his hospital at Uruagu, Nnewi, on the evening of Thursday, October 30, 2025.

Confirming his release to journalists on Tuesday night, the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State chapter, Dr. Princeton Okam, announced that the doctor was freed just before the expiration of the association’s 72-hour ultimatum to the state government.

The NMA had earlier threatened to suspend all medical services across Anambra if the government failed to secure the safe release of Dr. Mbanugo within three days.

Dr. Okam revealed that the association had already concluded plans for a total shutdown of health services when news came in that the abducted doctor had been released. “We just finished a meeting, and if he hadn’t been freed, all doctors would have commenced an indefinite strike. Thankfully, we received confirmation from contacts liaising with the kidnappers that he was released. I have personally spoken to him, and he is stable,” he said.

He further disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦100 million for Dr. Mbanugo’s release, confirming that payment was made, though he declined to specify the amount, citing security reasons.

Dr. Okam condemned the growing trend of kidnapping medical professionals who, according to him, dedicate their lives to saving others despite receiving modest wages. He lamented that doctors, who provide essential services, should not be targets of abduction.

“It’s disheartening that those who serve humanity are now the victims of such crimes. The kidnappers must understand that doctors are not wealthy. Many of our colleagues are already leaving the country because of poor remuneration. Those of us who choose to stay and serve should not be endangered,” he said.

The NMA chairman called on the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect residents, particularly healthcare workers who often respond to emergency calls at odd hours.

“We need a safer environment where medical personnel can carry out their duties without fear. Doctors cannot continue to risk their lives while saving others,” he concluded.