The Nigerian Medical Association Anambra State chapter, has threatened to embark on an indefinite strike if one of its members, Dr Edwin Emegakor, who was abducted on Thursday, is not released within 48 hours.
The association issued the warning in a communiqué released after an emergency general meeting held on Saturday, expressing concern over the worsening security situation in the state.
Dr Emegakor, the Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital in Nkpor, was reportedly kidnapped on the evening of May 7 by unidentified men dressed in uniform shortly after attending to patients at his hospital.
The communiqué, jointly signed by the state chairman of the association, Dr Princeston Okam, and its secretary, Dr Obiaeli Ifeanyi, said the abductors had yet to establish contact with the doctor’s family, colleagues, or associates as of Saturday morning.
The association said security agencies and relevant government authorities had already been notified and were making efforts to secure his freedom.
Condemning the incident, the NMA called on the Anambra State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward ensuring the doctor’s safe return.
“We strongly condemn this kidnapping and the growing insecurity in the state. Government and security agencies must urgently address the situation,” the communiqué stated.
The association gave the state government a 48-hour ultimatum to ensure the immediate release of Dr Emegakor.
“A 48-hour ultimatum is hereby given to the Anambra State Government to secure the immediate release of our colleague, Dr Edwin Emegakor.
“If our member is not released within the stipulated period, doctors across Anambra under the umbrella of the NMA will withdraw their services until he regains freedom,” the statement added.
The association also disclosed that another emergency meeting would be held within the next two days to assess developments and determine the next line of action.
While acknowledging efforts by the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, particularly through the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Ben Obidike, to improve healthcare delivery, the doctors urged authorities to take stronger steps in tackling insecurity.
The NMA further encouraged its members to remain committed to providing accessible and affordable healthcare services despite prevailing challenges.
“We hope that the sacrifices of healthcare workers in the state will not go unrewarded,” the association said.
