The Nigerian Medical Association, Ondo State chapter, has condemned the abduction of three nurses in Akure, describing the incident as alarming and a sign of worsening insecurity in the state.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped by suspected hoodlums at a primary healthcare centre in the Oke Ijebu area in the early hours of Saturday before being later abandoned and rescued.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the state chairman of the association, Alonge Olumuyiwa, said the situation demands urgent intervention from the government and other stakeholders.
“The Nigerian Medical Association… expresses deep concern and strong condemnation over the recent abduction of three health workers… This incident represents a troubling development in the security challenges facing the state and calls for proactive action,” he said.
He noted that although the victims have been released, the attack highlights the growing risks faced by health workers.
“As an association, we are gravely disturbed that those who dedicate their lives to saving others are now becoming targets of violence and insecurity. This threatens access to healthcare for the communities they serve,” the statement added.
The association linked the incident to increasing security lapses across the state, citing recent cases of kidnappings and attacks in several communities.
“What we used to hear as frequent occurrences in some northern states is fast becoming a regular development in our
Sunshine State,” it stated.
The NMA called on the Ondo State Government and security agencies to strengthen protection around health facilities and ensure improved safety for workers.
It also urged that security outfits, including the Amotekun Corps and the police, be adequately funded and motivated to effectively tackle crime.
The association further recommended the establishment of a stakeholders’ committee to develop a workable security plan for the state, alongside the creation of an intervention fund to address security gaps in health institutions.
“There is also an urgent need for health facility managers to engage health workers on security matters in order to reduce tension in health facilities,” it added.
While reaffirming its commitment to healthcare delivery, the association warned that health workers cannot continue to operate under fear, urging the government to treat the issue with urgency.
