Kidnapping: Doctors Embark On Indefinite Strike

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Cross River has embarked on an indefinite strike over the kidnap of the wife of their colleague, Mrs. Christian Ekanem, a staff of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital.

In a communique, jointly signed on Thursday in Calabar, by the Chairman of NMA in Cross River, Dr. Agam Ayuk, and the Secretary, Dr. Ezoke Epoke, NMA said the victim was kidnapped on March 10 by unknown gunmen.

The Association disclosed that from 2017 to date, no fewer than 15 medical doctors and their dependents have been kidnapped within the state.

Ayuk explained that the decision to embark on the strike followed the position taken by the Association after an Emergency General Meeting held on Jan. 8, 2018.

According to him, the position held that “the NMA in Cross River will henceforth withdraw all medical services without any notice anytime a Doctor or Dependents are taken captive in future”.

He lamented that the perpetrators have struck again, thereby adding untold hardship and emotional distress to the family and the Association.

“The unfortunate incident of the kidnap of the wife of a member of NMA is worrisome. She was kidnapped at her home in Satellite Town in Calabar on March 10, 2020.

“The NMA in Cross River is not unmindful of the impact of the withdrawal of medical services on the good people of Cross River.

“However, we cannot continue to save lives while we are under constant threat by armed bandits and kidnappers.

“NMA in Cross River has proceeded on a total and indefinite withdrawal of medical services in both the private, public and institutional hospitals in the state.

“This includes University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Federal Neuro-Psychiatry Hospital, General Hospital, Medical Centres, Mission Hospitals and Private Clinics with immediate effects,” he said.

He added that the action would continue until the wife of their colleague, Prof. Emmanuel Ekanem, is released.

He called on the state government and security agencies to expedite action and ensure the unconditional release of all victims currently in the captivity of kidnappers

“The Association hereby calls on Gov. Ben Ayade as the Chief Security Officer of the state to ensure the security of lives and properties in the state.

“The Association is also calling on President Muhammadu Buhari and the Inspector General of Police to declare a state of emergency on security in Cross River by mobilising human and material resources to curtail the increasing spate of insecurity within the state,” he said.

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