Doctors in Anambra end strike after kidnapped colleague regains his freedom – The Sun Nigeria

By Emmanuel Uzor, Awka

Barely 48 hours earlier, the Anambra branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) ended its indefinite strike in protest against the kidnapping of Dr. Stephen Ezeh following the release of that member.

A statement signed on Sunday by Dr. Princeston Okam, Chairman, and Dr. Ifeanyi Obiaeli, Secretary, said the decision followed the release of Dr. Ezeh from the captivity of his abductors.

Daily Sun reported that Ezeh, an Ihiala-based doctor, was kidnapped on August 15, 2024, following which the NMA asked its members to stop working on August 22, after earlier issuing a 48-hour ultimatum.

The NMA called on members to return to work and thanked everyone who had contributed in any way to Ezeh's release.

“The comprehensive and indefinite strike called by the Anambra branch of NMA in protest against the abduction of our member, Dr. Stephen Ezeh, is hereby called off following his release.

“Clinical services will resume on Sunday, August 25, 2024 at 08:00 a.m.”

“We thank the good people of Anambra for their patience during these difficult times and pray that this emergency will not be repeated.

“We thank our colleagues for their solidarity and tenacity in the face of the challenges facing the sector, particularly insecurity, and urge them to remain determined and committed to ensuring healthcare for the people of Anambra,” it said.

The NMA called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to declare a state of security emergency in Anambra as increasing insecurity and kidnappings were crippling the economy and health sector in the state.

The doctors called on the public, security agencies, professional associations and businesses to join hands with the governor for a peaceful, safe and healthy Anambra.