The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) has condemned the killing of a consultant psychiatrist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, Dr Andrew Orovwigho. The association also called for justice and compensation for his family.
In a statement signed by the APN President, Dr Veronica Oluyemisi Nyamali, and the Secretary General, Prof Kingsley Mayowa Okonoda, the association said it started the year 2026 with the sad news of his brutal murder.
APN explained that Dr Orovwigho was kidnapped from his home on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. His body was found the next day, December 31, 2025, where he had been abandoned. He was taken to the hospital that same day but sadly died on January 2, 2026.
The association described him as a brilliant and dedicated psychiatrist who was passionate about caring for patients, teaching, and mentoring others. They said his death is a great loss to both his family and the medical profession.
According to APN, Dr Orovwigho had visited a family friend in Enugu when he received a call asking him to return home to attend to what seemed like a private patient. As someone who always put his patients first, he excused himself and promised to return shortly.
When he got home, the association alleged that three armed men on a tricycle attacked him. He was shot in the knee, seriously injured, and taken away in his own car. He was later dumped at a sand site far from Enugu town and left to die. Reports also said he suffered more injuries, including gunshot wounds. The attackers allegedly contacted someone from the house he visited earlier, claiming they were paid to kill him.
APN warned that the mental health sector in Nigeria is already facing a shortage of doctors, as many are leaving the country due to insecurity and poor working conditions. The association questioned why healthcare workers should be killed in such a cruel way.
They described the killing as not only unjust but also an attack on the medical profession and Nigeria’s healthcare system. APN said psychiatrists in Nigeria will not remain silent over the murder of their colleague.
The association called on authorities in Enugu State to quickly arrest and prosecute those responsible for the crime. It also demanded proper compensation and support for the late doctor’s family.
Finally, APN urged the government to improve security across the country to protect healthcare workers and all citizens.
