Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a Kaduna-based ophthalmologist, has been freed after 10 months of captivity following her abduction with family members in December 2023. The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors expressed relief, extending gratitude for her safe return amid ongoing concerns about security and frequent abductions across Nigeria.
Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, an ophthalmology registrar at Kaduna's National Eye Centre, has been freed after 10 months in captivity. She was abducted on December 27, 2023, alongside her husband and nephew from the center’s senior staff quarters. While her husband was released in March after negotiations, Dr. Popoola and her nephew remained detained until her recent release.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) had previously initiated a warning strike in August, protesting Dr. Popoola’s continued captivity. On Thursday, NARD spokesperson Omoha Amobi confirmed her release in a statement, where Dr. Osundara Tope Zenith, NARD President, expressed immense relief and gratitude for her safe return. NARD extended thanks to all who supported her release, acknowledging the community’s prayers and contributions during the ordeal.
Nigeria has seen a wave of abductions by armed groups, adding significant challenges to public safety. In a recent incident, Rev. Father Thomas Oyode, rector of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Edo State, was taken by gunmen during evening prayers.
