Medical professionals in Anambra State are expressing deep concern following the abduction and subsequent release of Dr. Cornelius Onuigbo, a neurosurgeon who was kidnapped by gunmen on Tuesday night near the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Nnewi. The incident has heightened fears among doctors, with many now feeling like prime targets for kidnappers operating in the region.
Dr. Onuigbo was abducted while entering his home, and the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N50 million. However, after intense negotiations, the amount was reportedly reduced to N10 million. The exact ransom paid for his release remains unclear.
In response to the incident, Dr. Chukwuemeka Princeton Okam, the Anambra State Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), stated that medical doctors have become endangered species in the state due to the rising threat of abductions. He lamented the growing insecurity in Nigeria, particularly its impact on critical sectors like healthcare.
“This incident highlights the increasing danger that medical professionals are facing in Anambra State,” Dr. Okam said. “While this may have been an isolated case, it is part of a disturbing trend where doctors are increasingly being targeted by criminals.”
He also warned that the persistent threat could lead to a mass exodus of doctors from the state, further straining an already fragile healthcare system. “The frequent targeting of medical professionals is a grave concern, and if this continues, it could have severe consequences for healthcare delivery in the region,” he added.
While Dr. Okam expressed relief that Dr. Onuigbo had been released unharmed, he emphasized that the incident serves as a stark reminder of the daily insecurity faced by doctors and other professionals in the state. He urged both the government and law enforcement agencies to take urgent steps to ensure the safety of healthcare workers in Anambra and other regions plagued by similar threats.