Tension have gripped the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi, Anambra State, following the abduction of a medical doctor, Dr. Cornelius Onuigbo, on Tuesday evening.
Dr. Onuigbo, a urologist in NAUTH’s Urology Department, was reportedly kidnapped in front of his residence after returning from work.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the assailants trailed Dr. Onuigbo to his home and intercepted him as he approached the gate of his house. One source revealed that the gunmen blocked his path with their vehicle and coerced him into their car after a brief exchange. The destination of the abductors remains unknown.
A witness told VANGUARD, “Dr. Onuigbo was rounded up by some armed men, suspected to be kidnappers, as he was about entering the gate of his residence. They had a short conversation with him before ordering him into their vehicle and driving off.”
Although the exact motive of the abduction remains unclear, sources speculate it could be related to ransom demands, as Dr. Onuigbo is neither a politician nor publicly linked to any controversial matters.
The kidnapping has sparked widespread anger within NAUTH and the Nnewi community. Colleagues and residents described Dr. Onuigbo as a calm and friendly individual who is dedicated to saving lives.
