The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) expressed immense gratitude and relief following the release of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who had been held captive for 10 months. Dr. Popoola, an ophthalmology registrar at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, was abducted alongside her husband, Squadron Leader Nurudeen Popoola, and her nephew on December 27, 2023.
Following her husband’s release in March after protracted negotiations, NMA and NARD had intensified their appeals to the Federal Government to secure Dr. Popoola’s freedom. The announcement of her release late Wednesday was met with joy and appreciation from the medical community.
NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, stated, “We are overwhelmed with joy that she has finally been released. We are so happy, and we hope to visit her soon.”
NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundare, also conveyed gratitude, acknowledging coordinated efforts from President Bola Tinubu, Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Pate, the NMA leadership, and the National Security Advisor, among others.
As Dr. Popoola embarks on her recovery, NARD emphasized respecting her privacy, urging limited access to support her rehabilitation from the emotional toll of the ordeal.
