Dr. Cornelius Onuigbo, a medical practitioner at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, has regained his freedom after being abducted by unidentified gunmen.
Dr. Onuigbo was reportedly kidnapped on Tuesday evening in front of his residence in Nnewi while returning from work. He spent two distressing nights in captivity before being released in the early hours of Thursday.
The circumstances of his release remain unclear, with no confirmation on whether a ransom was paid or if he escaped on his own.
The news of his release has brought immense relief and joy to the staff at NAUTH. Colleagues from the hospital’s Urology Department and the institution’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Martina Onwuka, confirmed his safe return. On Thursday morning, jubilant scenes unfolded at the hospital premises, as staff members and doctors gathered to thank God for Dr. Onuigbo’s safety.
A colleague from the Urology Department, speaking anonymously, expressed relief over his release but also raised concerns about the possible emotional impact of the ordeal.
“We thank God that he has been released. We are not yet sure if any ransom was paid, and we cannot confirm if he was physically hurt. However, the psychological trauma of such an ordeal is significant. The most important thing is that he has reunited with his family. We thank God for sparing his life,” the colleague noted.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, also confirmed the development. He stated that Dr. Onuigbo has safely reunited with his family.
