By Mercy Gadia Adi
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has condemned the abduction of Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, a consultant neurosurgeon at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Anambra State, describing it as a direct assault on the nation’s health security.
Dr. Mbanugo was reportedly kidnapped on Thursday, October 30, around Omatha Junction, Uruagu, Nnewi, shortly after performing a series of brain surgeries, including the removal of a complex tumour.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, expressed deep concern over the incident, noting that the attack came at a time when the country faces an acute shortage of neurosurgeons.
“Earlier that same day, he had performed multiple critical neurosurgical procedures, saving lives and delivering highly specialised care to Nigerians in need, his abduction occurred at the very point where he should have been safest, returning home from serving humanity.” Salako said.
Salako revealed that contact had been made by the abductors using the victim’s phone and said the ministry was working closely with security agencies to ensure his release.
“The Federal Ministry of Health strongly condemns this incident and every form of violence against healthcare workers,” he said.
“Our health workforce, doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals — are national assets working under immense pressure to save lives. They must be protected and respected, not harmed or hunted.”
The minister urged the Anambra State Government and all relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to locate and rescue Dr. Mbanugo immediately and unconditionally.
He expressed solidarity with the doctor’s family, colleagues, and the management of NAUTH, assuring that the government remains committed to strengthening the safety and welfare of health workers nationwide.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has threatened to embark on strike if the abducted neurosurgeon is not released within 72 hours.