By Mariam Ileyemi
Kidnapped Nigerian doctor Ganiyat Popoola is free after 10 months in captivity.
She was abducted in December 2023 with her husband, Nurdeen Popoola, and nephew, Folaranmi Abdul-Mugniy.
Popoola was the registrar in the ophthalmology department at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna.
Her husband was released earlier after a N60-million ransom was reportedly paid to the kidnappers. However, the Daily Trust reports that the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (Nard) said no ransom was paid.
Popoola and her nephew remained in captivity until 30 October.
Nard’s public relations officer, Omoha Amobi, said its president, Osundara Tope Zenith, “is filled with immense joy and relief to inform you that Ganiyat Popoola, our dear colleague … has been released and reunited with her family.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a role in ensuring her safe return. The unwavering support, prayers, and contributions of all members and well-wishers have been invaluable in this challenging time,” Amobi said.
Nard members had earlier staged protest marches at tertiary hospitals calling for Popoola’s release and emphasised doctors’ need for adequate security.
