Resident doctors protest over colleague eight-month stay in kidnappers’ den

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on Friday protested in Lagos over the abduction of their colleague, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola. The demonstration was organised by resident doctors at Federal Medical Centre Ebute-Metta, Lagos, yesterday.

Popoola, a Kaduna-based medical practitioner at National Eye Care, was kidnapped seven months and twenty-one days ago in Kaduna and remains in captivity.

She was abducted along with her husband and a visiting nephew when bandits raided the staff quarters of the hospital on December 27, 2023.

On Thursday, doctors addressed the media after holding a peaceful protest at the National Eye Care Kaduna premises. They warned that if the abducted doctor is not rescued, they will be forced to undertake a nationwide industrial action.

President of the Association of Resident Doctors Federal Medical Centre Ebute-Metta, Lagos, Dr. Onyinye Lazson, described Ganiyat as a vital member of her community who has dedicated her life to the service of humanity. It is a tragedy that she is now a victim of kidnapping.

“She is a mother, daughter, and friend. We remain deeply concerned about their physical and mental health and the psychological toll this exerts on her immediate family and loved ones while praying for her safe and timely return.

“This incident is not an isolated case, as there have been reports of such abductions of medical personnel, making it increasingly difficult for healthcare workers to provide essential services to the populace. Her continued absence is greatly felt by everyone.”

The association called on the government to ensure her immediate and unconditional release.

“We urge the government to prioritise the safety of medical personnel who play a critical role in the community and take measures to de-escalate the current trend while working towards a long-term solution to address issues of insecurity in our nation.

“We will not rest until Dr. Ganiyat is safely returned. We are hoping for a peaceful resolution to this situation and call on her abductors to release Dr. Ganiyat Popoola immediately and unharmed, as her safe return will bring joy to all of us and restore hope in our community,” she said.