Dare Babalola
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State chapter, has threatened to embark on an indefinite withdrawal of services if a medical practitioner abducted in the state is not released within 48 hours.
The association issued the warning on Saturday following an emergency meeting convened over the disappearance of Dr Edwin Emegakor, who was reportedly kidnapped on May 7.
In a communiqué jointly endorsed by the state chairman of the association, Dr Princeston Okam, and the secretary, Dr Obiaeli Ifeanyi, the NMA called on the Anambra State Government and security agencies to urgently intensify efforts to secure the doctor’s freedom.
According to the association, Dr Emegakor, who serves as the Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital in Nkpor, was allegedly seized by unidentified men said to be dressed in security uniforms shortly after attending to patients on Thursday evening.
The doctors said that as of Saturday morning, the abductors had not contacted the victim’s family, friends, colleagues or associates.
They, however, noted that relevant authorities had already been informed and had begun efforts aimed at rescuing the doctor.
The association strongly condemned the incident and described it as another disturbing sign of worsening insecurity in the state.
“NMA Anambra condemns this unfortunate abduction and calls on the government and security agencies to rise immediately to the challenge,” the communiqué stated.
“A 48-hour ultimatum is hereby issued to the Anambra State Government to ensure the immediate release of our colleague, Dr Edwin Emegakor.
“Should the deadline expire without his release, doctors across Anambra under the umbrella of the NMA will suspend services until he regains freedom.”
The body also disclosed that another emergency meeting would be held after the expiration of the ultimatum to assess developments and determine the next line of action.
While expressing appreciation to Governor Chukwuma Soludo through the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Ben Obidike, for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery, the association urged the government to adopt stronger and more effective strategies to address insecurity.
The NMA further encouraged members to remain committed to delivering affordable, quality and accessible healthcare to residents despite the prevailing security concerns.
“It is our hope that the sacrifices of our members will not go in vain,” the association added.
