NARD Calls For Rescue Of Doctor Abducted Seven Months Ago

In a harrowing ordeal that has now stretched beyond seven months, a resident doctor at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, Dr. Ganiyat Olawale-Popoola, remains in captivity alongside her nephew, Folaranmi Abdul-Mugniy.

It was gathered that Popoola was abducted on December 27, 2023, at about 1 am within the Senior Staff Quarters at the National Eye Centre, Kaduna.

She was abducted with her husband, a Squadron leader, Nurudeen Popoola, and her nephew who stays with them, Folaranmi Abdul-Mugniy.

After several negotiations with the kidnappers, the husband was released on March 8, 2024, but the doctor and Abdul-Mugniy were not released.

It was also gathered that since the incident, the abductors had called severally at will and occasionally to allow some family members to speak to the captives, and they were spoken to last on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, to prove that the doctor and her husband’s nephew were still alive.

It was gathered that the payment of a substantial ransom exceeding ₦120 million, along with additional materials worth over ₦20 million, to no avail.

The kidnapped doctor is a graduate of Ladoke Akintola University (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso and a native of Ìséyìn in Oyo State,

The prolonged absence of the mother of five, has left a profound impact on her family, colleagues, and the medical community at large.

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), through its Vice President 1, Ilori Solomon, on Friday called for the immediate and unconditional release of Dr. Olawale-Popoola and her nephew.

He emphasized the critical role that healthcare professionals like the doctor play in society, particularly during these challenging times.

Solomon called on all relevant authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts in securing the release of the doctor and her nephew.

He appealed to the conscience of the captors, urging them to release their hostages without further delay.

He appreciated the ongoing efforts of all stakeholders involved and remains hopeful for a positive resolution that will bring Dr. Ganiyat Olawale-Popoola and Folaranmi Abdul-Mugniy safely back to their loved ones.