Amnesty International has strongly condemned the abduction of consultant neurosurgeon, Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Anambra State, by unidentified gunmen.
According to reports, Dr. Mbanugo was attacked and abducted around Omatha Junction, Uruagu, Nnewi, shortly after performing several complex neurosurgical operations.
Widely respected for his expertise, Dr. Mbanugo is known for successfully carrying out multiple life-saving procedures, including the removal of a complex brain tumour.
Amnesty International, in a statement, called on the Nigerian authorities to take immediate action to ensure his safe release and bring the perpetrators to justice through a fair trial.
The human rights organisation expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in the South-East, noting that the government’s persistent failure to address the crisis has created an atmosphere of impunity.
It stated that between January 2021 and June 2023, at least 1,844 people were killed in the region by both state and non-state actors, underscoring the urgent need for decisive action to protect lives and uphold human rights.
