Doctors in Anambra State have threatened to embark on an indefinite strike unless the state government secures the release of a kidnapped colleague, raising fresh concerns over the growing security risks confronting healthcare workers.
The Nigeria Medical Association, Anambra State chapter, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the state government following the abduction of Dr. Edwin Emegakor on May 7.
“A 48-hour ultimatum is hereby given to the Anambra Government to secure the immediate release of our colleague, Dr. Edwin Emegakor,” the association said in a communiqué issued after an Emergency General Meeting held on Saturday.
The doctors warned that failure to secure Emegakor’s release within the stipulated period would result in a statewide withdrawal of medical services.
“If, at the expiration of the above timeline, our member’s release is not secured, all the doctors in Anambra under the aegis of the NMA will down tools until our member is released,” the association stated.
The NMA linked the proposed industrial action directly to concerns over the safety of healthcare workers, condemning the worsening insecurity in the state.
“NMA Anambra condemned this recent kidnapping and insecurity, and called on the government and security agencies to rise to this challenge immediately,” the communiqué added.
According to the statement, which was signed by Chairman Dr. Princeston Okam and Secretary Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, the kidnappers had yet to establish contact with Emegakor’s family, relatives, friends, or colleagues as of Saturday morning.
The association noted that relevant government authorities and security agencies had been informed of the incident and were already taking steps to secure the doctor’s release.
To monitor developments, the doctors disclosed that “an emergency meeting will be convened within the next 48 hours to review the progress made so far”.
Despite the strike threat, the NMA commended Chukwuma Soludo, through the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Ben Obidike, for efforts aimed at improving healthcare delivery in the state.
The association also urged its members to remain committed to patient care despite the prevailing challenges.
“It is our hope that your sacrifices shall not go unrewarded,” the statement added.
