Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo, a neurosurgeon at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, who was abducted last week in Anambra State, has regained his freedom.

Dr Mbanugo was kidnapped in front of his hospital at Uruagu, Nnewi, on the evening of Thursday, 30 October 2025.

Confirming his release on Tuesday night November 4, Dr Princeton Okam, the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Anambra State, stated the doctor was freed shortly before the expiration of the association’s 72-hour ultimatum to the State Government.

“We just finished a meeting, and if the doctor had not been released, all doctors would have shut down. Fortunately, we got a call from those in contact with the k!dnappers that he has been released. I have also spoken to him and can confirm that he is stable,” Okam disclosed.

The NMA had on Sunday issued a 72-hour deadline for the government to ensure Dr Mbanugo’s safe release or face a total shutdown of medical services in the state.

Okam explained that the abductors had demanded N100 million as ransom but declined to disclose the actual amount paid, citing security reasons.

He expressed concern over the increasing cases of abductions targeting medical personnel, noting that doctors, who provide essential services despite poor salary, should not be subjected to such ordeals.

“It’s worrisome that doctors, who are essential service providers, are being targeted by k!dnappers. We are not well-paid to be vict!ms of ransom demands. Many doctors are already leaving the country because of poor pay, and those of us who stay back should be spared by these cr!minals,” he lamented.