The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) is calling for the immediate release of their colleague, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who was kidnapped along with her husband and nephew on December 27, 2023. Dr. Popoola, a medical professional at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, remains in captivity, while her husband was released in March.
In a statement, Dr. Abah Innocent, President of the ARD at UATH, expressed deep concern over the increasing trend of kidnappings targeting health workers. He highlighted that this disturbing trend is becoming a “pandemic,” with no one being spared, regardless of their profession or status.
“Our colleague, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, has been held by abductors for seven months and 20 days. Despite the release of her husband, Dr. Popoola remains in captivity, and we have confirmed evidence that she is still alive,” Dr. Innocent stated.
The ARD is urging the hospital management and the Federal Government to intervene urgently, calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure Dr. Popoola’s release. The association emphasized that failure to act would weigh heavily on their conscience and urged the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UATH, Prof. Bisallah Ekele, to push for government action.
Prof. Ekele, represented by Dr. Bob Ukonu, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, reassured the doctors of ongoing efforts to secure Dr. Popoola’s freedom. He acknowledged the collective concern among medical professionals and encouraged the continuation of awareness campaigns to keep the issue in the public eye.
The call for Dr. Popoola’s release comes amid reports of other kidnappings, including 20 medical students abducted while traveling to a program, underscoring the increasing unpredictability and danger faced by citizens across the country. The ARD and hospital management are committed to ensuring the safe return of their colleague.
