Dare Babalola
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Abia State Branch, has suspended its planned indefinite strike following the release of abducted Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Bonaventure Aguocha, after nine days in captivity.
The decision was announced in a statement jointly signed by the association’s Chairman, Dr. Ezenwa Ezuruike, and Secretary, Dr. Clement Ifenkoronye.
According to the statement issued on Tuesday, Dr. Aguocha regained his freedom on June 1, ending an ordeal that had generated widespread concern among medical practitioners and the general public.
The association expressed gratitude to God for preserving the surgeon’s life and ensuring his safe return.
“We thank God for preserving his life and for his safe return to his family, colleagues and patients,” the NMA said.
The association also commended the efforts of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti; Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma; the Department of State Services (DSS); the Nigeria Police Force; and other individuals involved in securing the doctor’s release.
It further appreciated members of the public for their prayers, support and solidarity throughout the period of Dr. Aguocha’s captivity.
Despite welcoming his release, the NMA condemned the growing cases of kidnappings targeting healthcare workers across the country, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to healthcare delivery.
The association cited the unresolved abduction of Prof. Iweha since 2020 as evidence of the persistent security challenges facing medical professionals.
“The recurring targeting of doctors can be seen in the still unresolved case of Prof. Iweha since 2020. This severely undermines healthcare delivery and the morale of professionals working under already difficult conditions,” the statement noted.
The NMA called on federal and state governments to strengthen security around healthcare workers and medical facilities, while urging security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into Dr. Aguocha’s abduction and ensure that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
According to the association, bringing the perpetrators to justice would serve as a deterrent to criminal elements involved in the kidnapping of healthcare workers and other citizens.
The NMA explained that Dr. Aguocha’s safe release fulfilled the condition earlier set by its congress for the suspension of the planned total and indefinite strike action scheduled to commence on June 2.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to quality healthcare service delivery in Abia State and wished the surgeon a speedy recovery from the physical and psychological effects of his ordeal.
