The Chairman of the Resident Doctors Association of the Abeokuta Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Abdulgafar Kolade, has called for the immediate release of Ganiyat Popoola, a senior doctor at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, and her nephew, Abdul-Mugniy Folaranmi, who have been held captive for nearly eight months.
Mr Kolade spoke in Abeokuta during a peaceful protest held by members of the Resident Doctors Association of Abeokuta Neuropsychiatric Hospital, at the hospital premises in Aro, Abeokuta.
He expressed deep concern about the continued captivity of Mrs Popoola and her young nephew.
He noted that the prolonged detention of the medical professional and her family member has not only inflicted immense suffering on their loved ones, but has also dealt a significant blow to the medical community and patients who rely on Ms Popoola's expertise.
“Dr. Ganiyat Popoola is a respected medical professional dedicated to the service of humanity. Her abduction, along with that of her husband and nephew seven months ago, has left a huge void in the lives of those who depend on her.
“While her husband was eventually released, Dr Popoola and Abdul-Mugniy remain in captivity, suffering unimaginable physical and psychological trauma,” Kolade said.
He stressed the urgency of securing their release, noting that the current ordeal reveals the worsening insecurity in the country.
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“The Resident Doctors Association of Abeokuta Neuropsychiatric Hospital calls on the government, security agencies and all relevant authorities to intensify efforts to ensure the safe return of Dr. Popoola and her nephew,” he said.
The association also called on the kidnappers to release them unconditionally, stressing the profound humanitarian and ethical implications of their continued detention.
“We urge the kidnappers to acknowledge the inhumanity of their actions and release Dr. Ganiyat and Abdul-Mugniy without further delay,” Kolade pleaded.
In a show of solidarity, the association also called on the general public to join in amplifying their voices against such acts of terrorism and violence.
“Let us stand together, show solidarity with the affected families and push for immediate action. The essence of our humanity lies in our collective responsibility to protect each other.
“The association maintains that until Dr. Popoola and Abdul-Mugniy return safely, the medical community and the nation at large will continue to suffer in their absence,” Kolade stressed.
The protest, organised by the Resident Doctors Association of the Abeokuta Neuropsychiatric Hospital, is part of ongoing efforts to draw attention to the plight of Ms Popoola and her nephew, and to call for swift action from the authorities.