Former presidential candidate in 2023, Peter Obi, has called on security agencies to act swiftly to secure the release of Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon who was abducted.
Mbanugo is with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi.
In a post on X, Obi said Mbanugo was abducted shortly after saving lives in the operating theatre.
“While still urging our government to engage the American government – through diplomatic means and otherwise – in helping us contain the rising wave of insecurity ravaging our nation, which has sadly made Nigeria one of the most insecure places in the world, I wish once again to draw attention to areas that require our immediate and collective action.
“The kidnapping of Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, shortly after an intensive day of saving lives in the operating theatre, including the successful removal of a complex brain tumour, is deeply worrisome.
“His abduction is not just an attack on one man; it is an attack on our already fragile healthcare system, and on the hope of millions of Nigerians who depend on the selfless service of our few remaining specialists.
“In a country of over 200 million people, we have fewer than 150 neurosurgeons – meaning there is approximately one brain surgeon for every 1.9 million Nigerians – where the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends at least one neurosurgeon per 100,000 people.
“This enormous gap highlights the sacrifices and pressure our doctors face daily, and the severe consequences of insecurity, which continues to drive many of them away.
“We must ensure the safe and immediate release of Dr Tochukwu, and I urge the security agencies to act swiftly. No nation can develop when its brightest minds live in fear. We must protect all, especially those who dedicate their lives to saving ours,” Obi said.
