The Nigerian Medical Association in the Federal Capital Territory (NMA-FCT) has issued a stern warning of a total shutdown of medical services across Abuja if security agencies fail to immediately secure the release of their kidnapped colleague, Dr. Chinonye Nwachukwu.
16 Days in Captivity: A Plea Ignored
Dr. Chinonye Nwachukwu, a young doctor who recently returned to Nigeria after studying in Ukraine, was abducted on October 21, 2025, while on her way to work at Garki Hospital. According to the President of the NMA-FCT, Dr. Emeka Ayogu, the association reported the incident to the Department of State Security (DSS), the FCT Police Command, and the FCT Minister on the very day it occurred.
Despite these efforts, 16 days later, Dr. Nwachukwu remains in captivity. "Despite reporting the matter the day it occurred... our colleague has been in captivity for 16 days," Dr. Ayogu lamented. The kidnappers have demanded a ransom of N38 million and have threatened harm if law enforcement intervenes.
Failed Negotiations and a Bleeding Association
The situation has been marked by broken promises from the kidnappers. Dr. Ayogu revealed that although the family paid an initial sum as demanded, the abductors reneged on their promise to allow Dr. Nwachukwu to speak with her father. "Their last communication was three days after her abduction, and her condition remains unknown," he stated, expressing deep concern for her well-being.
Other medical leaders echoed this distress. Dr. Uchenna Aniebue described the NMA-FCT as "currently bleeding," adding, "Each time we go to bed, we think about her situation." The Vice Chairman of the chapter, Dr. Abdullahi Nasiru, warned that members are prepared to demonstrate on the streets of the FCT if the issue is not resolved, a drastic step they have not taken before.
A Call to Action and a Threat to Healthcare
The doctors have framed this incident as a critical test of governance and safety for professionals in Nigeria. Dr. Ayogu highlighted the irony that Dr. Nwachukwu chose to return to Nigeria to serve her country amidst a high rate of medical professionals leaving abroad, a phenomenon known as the 'japa' syndrome.
"It will be unfair if the government does nothing to rescue her," he insisted, noting the significant sacrifices her father made by selling personal belongings to fund her education in Ukraine.
In a final ultimatum, the NMA-FCT stated that having exhausted all diplomatic channels, they are left with no choice. Unless immediate action is taken to secure her unconditional release, doctors in Abuja will down tools and embark on a peaceful protest, potentially bringing healthcare services in the capital to a halt.
In a show of solidarity, the Chairman of the Nigeria Dental Association, FCT Chapter, Dr. Theophilus Agho, also made a passionate appeal to the kidnappers, pleading for the release of the young graduate who has not yet had the chance to enjoy her life.
