FG Demands Immediate Release of Kidnapped Anambra Neurosurgeon, Describes Him as a Rare Specialist

By Our Correspondent

The Federal Government has expressed deep concern over the abduction of Consultant Neurosurgeon, Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, in Nnewi, Anambra State, describing the incident as a grave assault on Nigeria’s health security.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Adekunle Salako, in a statement on Sunday, said the development was particularly distressing given its implications for the nation’s fragile health system.

Salako revealed that Nigeria has fewer than 150 practising neurosurgeons serving a population of over 220 million, far below the World Health Organisation (WHO) benchmark of one neurosurgeon per 100,000 people.

“Nigeria currently has one neurosurgeon per 1.9 million citizens, making every specialist invaluable,” the Minister said.

He described the abduction as “a direct assault on national health security and a threat to collective well-being,” stressing that the ministry strongly condemns all forms of violence against healthcare professionals.

“Doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals are national assets who must be protected and respected. We therefore call on the Anambra State Government and all relevant security agencies to intensify efforts toward locating Dr. Mbanugo and ensuring his immediate, safe, and unconditional release,” he added.

According to the statement, Dr. Mbanugo was attacked around Omatha Junction, Uruagu, Nnewi, while returning home after performing multiple life-saving brain surgeries earlier in the day at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH).

He was said to have just concluded several complex neurosurgical procedures, including a brain tumour resection, when he was abducted.

“His kidnapping occurred at the very point where he should have been safest — returning home after serving humanity,” Salako lamented.

Reports from the hospital indicated that the abductors later contacted some of Dr. Mbanugo’s colleagues using his phone.

The incident has been reported to the Anambra State Police Command, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Anti-Kidnapping Squad, and local vigilante groups.

Salako further disclosed that the management of NAUTH is working closely with security agencies, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), and other stakeholders to ensure the neurosurgeon’s prompt and safe release