Kidnappers Demand N10 Million Ransom for Abducted Anambra Doctor

A medical doctor from Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, Dr. Cornelius Onuigbo, has been kidnapped by gunmen who are now demanding a ransom of N10 million for his release.

Dr. Onuigbo, a neurologist, was abducted on Tuesday night in front of his home while returning from the hospital. Initially, the kidnappers demanded N50 million but later reduced the amount to N10 million after negotiations. A close friend of the doctor revealed that the family is pleading for a further reduction, as they are struggling to raise the money.

The Anambra State Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Chukwuemeka Princeton Okam, confirmed the incident and expressed concerns over the growing trend of abductions targeting doctors in the state. He disclosed that many medical professionals have received threat calls, leaving them in fear for their safety.

Dr. Okam described the kidnapping as a well-planned attack, stating that the gunmen intercepted Dr. Onuigbo as he was about to enter his house in Uruagu village, Nnewi, along the Nnewi-Oba Road. He noted that the attackers might have been monitoring their victim or simply selected him at random.