The Anambra State chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has demanded the immediate release of one of its members, Dr Edwin Emegakor, who was abducted from his hospital on May 7.
The association made the demand in a communiqué issued after its Emergency General Meeting held on Saturday.
It urged the Anambra State Government and the Police Command to ensure the safe return of the doctor.
The communiqué was signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the association, Dr Princeston Okam and Dr Obiaeli Ifeanyi, respectively.
They warned that doctors in the state would embark on a total shutdown of services if Emegakor was not released within 48 hours.
Emegakor, the Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital, Nkpor, was reportedly abducted on the evening of May 7 after attending to patients by unidentified gunmen alleged to be in security uniforms.
According to the NMA, the abductors had yet to establish contact with the victim’s family, friends or colleagues as of Saturday.
The association noted that relevant government agencies had been notified and were already taking steps toward securing his release.
48-Hour Ultimatum
“NMA Anambra condemns this recent incident of kidnapping and rising insecurity and calls on the government and security agencies to urgently address the situation.
“A 48-hour ultimatum is hereby given to the Anambra government to secure the immediate release of our colleague, Dr Edwin Emegakor.
‘If at the expiration of the timeline our member is not released, all doctors in Anambra under the aegis of NMA will down tools until he regains freedom,” the communiqué stated.
It added that an emergency meeting would be convened within 48 hours to assess progress made on the matter.
The association, however, appreciated Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, through the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Ben Obidike, for efforts aimed at improving healthcare service delivery in the state.
It also called for stronger measures to tackle insecurity.
The NMA also urged its members to remain committed to providing quality, affordable and accessible healthcare services to residents despite prevailing challenges.
“It is our hope that your sacrifices shall not go unrewarded,” it added.
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