Bandits hold abducted Niger State medical doctor despite N20m ransom payment

 

The medical doctor abducted in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, has remained in captivity for 33 days despite reports that his captors collected N20 million ransom. 

 

Dr Tony Eghagagara, the Head of Medical Services at New Bussa General Hospital in Borgu, was kidnapped by suspected bandits on April 22, 2026, at his private clinic located on the outskirts of Wawa town.

Sources close to the family told Daily Trust that the kidnappers stopped communicating with relatives and colleagues after receiving the ransom payment.

 

A reliable source also disclosed that the abducted doctor was allegedly being forced to treat injured members of the terrorist group.

 

The National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (MAGGMDP) on Tuesday called on the Niger State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts towards securing his release.

In a statement issued after an emergency meeting, jointly signed by the association’s chairman, Dr Mustapha Mohammed Aliyu, and General Secretary, Dr Musa Alhaji Shehu, the group expressed concern over the prolonged captivity of their colleague.

 

“Thirty-three days in captivity, our member has yet to be released. The family of our member in captivity has not been provided adequate support by the government,” the association said.

 

The association also decried the inadequate security presence in healthcare facilities located in insecure areas despite repeated calls for improved protection of health workers.

 

MAGGMDP urged the government to strengthen security around hospitals and clinics, especially in rural communities frequently targeted by armed groups.