The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has confirmed the release of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola who was abducted by terrorists and held captive for 10 months.
Popoola, a registrar in the Department of Ophthalmology at the National Eye Centre, Kaduna State, was kidnapped on December 27, 2023, alongside her husband Squadron Leader Nurudeen Popoola and her nephew Folaranmi Abdul-Mugniy who resides with them.
Following extensive negotiations with the kidnappers, her husband was released on March 8, 2024, but the doctor and Abdul-Mugniy remained in captivity.
NARD launched a campaign for Popoola’s release with the hashtag “#BringBackDrGaniyat” across social media platforms.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NARD’s spokesperson Omoha Amobi expressed relief and joy felt by NARD’s president Dr Tope Osundara, saying, “We are filled with immense joy and relief to inform you that Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, our dear colleague, has been released and reunited with her family.”
The statement conveyed gratitude to everyone who contributed to her safe return, acknowledging “the unwavering support, prayers, and contributions of all members and well-wishers, which have been invaluable during this challenging time.”
Osundara told PUNCH that no ransom was paid for her release.
