A medical doctor from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Anambra State, has become the latest victim in a wave of abductions sweeping the state. Dr. Cornelius Onuigbo, a respected neurologist, was kidnapped outside his home in Uruagu, Nnewi, on Tuesday night while returning from duty.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the gunmen intercepted Dr. Onuigbo as he tried to enter his compound along Nnewi-Orba Road. “He was right at his gate when the gunmen struck,” revealed Dr. Chukwuemeka Princeton Okam, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State Branch. “They double-crossed him and whisked him away in a flash.”
Gunmen Demand N10 Million Ransom
Initial reports suggest the kidnappers contacted the victim’s family, demanding a hefty ransom of N50 million. However, after negotiations, the demand was reduced to N10 million. A close associate of Dr. Onuigbo, who preferred anonymity, disclosed that the family is still struggling to raise the amount.
“They started with N50 million, but after much pleading, it’s now N10 million,” the source explained. “We are reaching out to friends and well-wishers, hoping to gather the funds to secure his release. The family is distraught and under immense pressure.”
The anonymous source also expressed concern over the frequency of abductions targeting professionals in Anambra State, adding that residents live in constant fear.
Doctors Living in Fear
Dr. Okam painted a grim picture of the dangers medical professionals face in the region, citing numerous cases of threat calls and targeted abductions. “Many of our members have been receiving threat calls,” he said. “It’s a troubling trend. We’re beginning to feel endangered in our own state.”
He emphasized that the kidnapping of Dr. Onuigbo is not an isolated incident. “Nobody is safe, whether you’re a doctor or not. These criminals either have inside information or act at random. Either way, it’s terrifying.”
Dr. Okam called on the state government to prioritize security, particularly for medical practitioners who are crucial to the healthcare system. “We’re optimistic that the state government will intensify efforts to curb these kidnappings. Something must be done urgently to restore confidence and safety among residents and professionals,” he said.
String of Abductions Alarming
Dr. Onuigbo’s ordeal is part of a disturbing trend in Anambra State, where professionals, particularly medical workers, have become prime targets for criminal elements. In recent years, the state has witnessed an uptick in kidnappings, often accompanied by demands for exorbitant ransoms.
Residents say the surge in such crimes reflects deeper issues with law enforcement and socioeconomic conditions. “The state has become a hotbed for these activities because security measures are either inadequate or poorly implemented,” said a local community leader who requested anonymity.
The abductions have left many medical practitioners questioning their safety. Some have reportedly sought relocation or transferred their services to other states, fearing for their lives.
State Government Under Pressure
The Anambra State Government, led by Governor Charles Soludo, has previously pledged to address the insecurity crisis plaguing the region. However, critics argue that tangible results have been slow to materialize.
The government has rolled out several security initiatives, including surveillance operations and collaboration with local vigilante groups. But experts believe a more robust strategy involving intelligence-driven policing and community participation is necessary to dismantle criminal networks operating in the state.
“We need to go beyond reactionary measures,” said security analyst Dr. Obi Nwosu. “The authorities must tackle the root causes of these crimes, which include unemployment, poverty, and the proliferation of arms. Without addressing these issues, we’re simply fighting symptoms.”
Residents Speak Out
The incident has sparked widespread outrage among residents, who feel increasingly vulnerable to criminal activities. “It’s heartbreaking that even doctors, who work tirelessly to save lives, are not spared,” said Chinyere Madu, a teacher in Nnewi. “This state of insecurity is unacceptable. We need immediate action from our leaders.”
Others expressed concerns about the psychological toll these incidents take on communities. “It’s not just the victims who suffer; the entire community lives in fear,” said a businessman in Uruagu. “The government must rise to the occasion and protect us.”
A Cry for Justice
As the search for Dr. Onuigbo continues, the Anambra medical community is rallying support for his safe release. The Nigerian Medical Association has called on law enforcement agencies to expedite efforts to locate and rescue their colleague.
“We urge security operatives to leave no stone unturned,” said Dr. Okam. “This is not just about Dr. Onuigbo; it’s about restoring faith in our system and ensuring no one else suffers such a fate.”
For now, the doctor’s family and friends remain hopeful that he will return unharmed. “We’re praying for his safety and appealing to his abductors to show compassion,” said a family spokesperson.
