The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian government to engage American government through diplomatic means to contain the wave of insecurity in the country.
Obi, in a post on his verified X handle on Tuesday was reacting to the abduction of Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State.
He described the abduction as not just an attack on one man, but the already fragile healthcare system, and on the hope of millions of Nigerians who depend on the spelfless service of the few remaining specialists.
“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.
“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,” he said.