Anambra Doctors Suspend Strike after Release of Abducted colleague

The Anambra State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, has called off the indefinite strike it embarked upon to protest the kidnap of Dr Stephen Ezeh, an Ihiala based medical doctor.

The NMA, which announced its members’ return to duty posts in a statement on Sunday, said the decision followed Ezeh’s release on Saturday.

The statement was signed by Dr Princeston Okam and Dr Ifeanyi Obiaeli, Chairman and Secretary, respectively.

The association appealed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to declare a state of emergency on security in Anambra, noting tha the growing insecurity, particularly kidnapping, was crippling the economy and healthcare delivery in the State.

The NMA directed its members to resume clinical services to the public at their various establishments on Sunday while appreciating everyone who contributed towards securing the release of Ezeh.

“The total and indefinite strike called by the NMA Anambra Branch to protest the kidnap of our member, Dr Stephen Ezeh, is hereby called off following his release. Clinical services resumes 08:00 hours Sunday Aug 25.

“We appreciate the good people of Anambra for bearing with us through these trying times while we earnestly pray that this tribulation will not arise again.

“We appreciate our colleagues for their solidarity and doggedness in the face of the challenges facing the sector, especially insecurity and urge them to remain resolute and committed towards delivering healthcare to Anambra people,” the statement said.

The doctors called on the general public, security agencies, professional bodies and corporate bodies to join hands with the governor towards achieving a peaceful, secure and healthy Anambra.

Recall that Ezeh was kidnapped in Ihiala on August 15 following which the NMA directed members to down tools on August 22 after issuing a 48 hour ultimatum.