Doctors in Nigerian public hospitals have initiated a seven-day nationwide strike to demand the release of their colleague, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who has been held captive for eight months.
Dr. Popoola, an ophthalmologist and mother of five, was abducted from her home on December 27, along with her husband and a nephew.
Her husband was released in March after a ransom was reportedly paid, but the kidnappers have continued to hold Dr. Popoola and her nephew.
The doctors have announced that they will not provide even emergency care during the strike, expressing frustration with the perceived inadequacy of security agencies in securing Dr. Popoola’s release.
Dr. Dele Abdullahi, president of the doctors’ association, stated, “It’s been eight months of agony for her, her family, and her colleagues.
The life of doctors should matter to Nigerians.” He warned that if the situation does not improve, they may declare an indefinite strike.
Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Okpanaki, a colleague of Dr. Popoola, described the current state of medical workers in Nigeria as “demoralized and terrified,” emphasizing the need for protection for those who choose to stay and work amidst the ongoing crisis.
Dr. Popoola, who began working at the National Eye Centre hospital in Kaduna six years ago, was still breastfeeding her youngest child at the time of her abduction.
The hospital, one of the largest eye hospitals in Nigeria, is located on the outskirts of Kaduna city, which is vulnerable to kidnappings.
The kidnappers are demanding a ransom of 40 million naira (approximately £19,000 or $25,000) for Dr. Popoola’s release.
Although a law criminalizing ransom payments was enacted in 2022, it has not been enforced, and relatives often pay ransoms to secure the release of their loved ones.
The Nigerian government has yet to comment on the strike or Dr. Popoola’s situation.
Dr. Abdullahi revealed that while the family initially sought a diplomatic resolution, they have now authorized other means to secure Dr. Popoola’s release.
Kidnapping for ransom has surged in Nigeria, particularly in the north-west, driven by criminal gangs seeking financial gain.
Source-BBC
