A medical practitioner, Dr Solomon Nidiamaka, who was kidnapped on Monday in Kogi, has regained his freedom. His abductors told him they are in the business of kidnapping to feed themselves.

Dr Nidiamaka of the General Hospital in Ugwolawo in Ofu Local Government Area of the state was kidnapped by unknown gunmen around 8:30 a.m. from the premises of the hospital.

A statement jointly issued by the chairman and secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in the state, Omakoji Oyiguh and Famotele Tolorunju respectively on Wednesday said that the kidnapped doctor was released on Tuesday.

“The State Officer Council (SOC) of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kogi, wishes to update all concerned that our member, Dr Solomon Nidiamaka, who was kidnapped on July 19, regained his freedom from the cruel hands of kidnappers yesterday (Tuesday).

”He is being currently managed by his medical colleagues.

“NMA appreciates the government of Kogi, security agencies, Chairman of Ofu Local Government Council, vigilantes and Hunters’ Association, who all responded to the distress call and all those who called to show solidarity.

”We wish to inform the federal government that the kidnappers told our kidnapped colleague that they were in the business of kidnapping to be able to feed,” the association said.

It called on the federal government to continue to prioritise youth employment to de-escalate kidnapping, which had become a national malaise leading to disruption in health care delivery, including brain drain.

The association did not, however, disclose if any ransom was paid to secure the release of the kidnapped doctor.