Anambra Medical Association Ends Strike Following Release of Kidnapped Doctor

The Anambra State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has officially ended the indefinite strike action initiated in response to the abduction of Dr. Stephen Ezeh, a prominent medical practitioner based in Ihiala.

The strike, which significantly disrupted healthcare services across the state, was called off after Dr. Ezeh’s safe release on Saturday.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the NMA announced that its members would be resuming their duties with immediate effect.

The statement was jointly signed by the Chairman, Dr. Princeston Okam, and the Secretary, Dr. Ifeanyi Obiaeli, both of whom expressed relief over the resolution of the crisis but highlighted the urgent need for improved security measures in the state.

The NMA directed all its members to return to their clinical duties by 8:00 am on Sunday, 25th August, following Dr. Ezeh’s release.

The association expressed deep gratitude to the people of Anambra State for their patience and understanding during the strike.

The statement emphasised the solidarity and determination of medical professionals in the face of mounting security challenges, particularly the growing threat of kidnappings, which have become alarmingly frequent in recent times.

“The indefinite strike called by the NMA Anambra Branch to protest the kidnapping of our esteemed colleague, Dr. Stephen Ezeh, has been officially called off following his release.

We urge all members to resume their clinical services promptly, starting from 8:00 am on Sunday, 25th August.

We deeply appreciate the understanding shown by the people of Anambra during this trying period, and we earnestly hope that such a distressing situation will not recur,” the statement read.

The NMA extended its appreciation to everyone who played a role in securing Dr. Ezeh’s release, acknowledging the collective efforts of various individuals and groups.

The association also urged its members to remain steadfast and committed to their duty of providing quality healthcare services to the people of Anambra, despite the challenging circumstances.

In light of the recent events, the NMA has made a strong appeal to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to declare a state of emergency on security within the state.

The association highlighted that the escalating insecurity, particularly the menace of kidnappings, is having a crippling effect on both the economy and the healthcare delivery system in Anambra.

The abduction of Dr. Ezeh is not an isolated incident but part of a broader trend of insecurity that has left many professionals in constant fear for their lives.

This situation has not only disrupted healthcare services but has also instilled a sense of fear and uncertainty among healthcare providers and the general public.

The NMA’s call for a state of emergency on security is a desperate plea for action to restore peace and safety in the state.

“We urge the Anambra State Government to take immediate and decisive steps to address the security challenges plaguing our state.

The safety of our citizens, including healthcare professionals, is paramount, and we cannot continue to operate in an environment where our lives are constantly at risk.

It is imperative that the government prioritises security to ensure that Anambra remains a safe place for all,” the NMA stated.

The doctors also called upon the general public, security agencies, professional bodies, and corporate organisations to join forces with the state government in the fight to restore security and peace in Anambra.

The association stressed the importance of collective action in tackling the security challenges and ensuring the safety of all residents.

“We call on all stakeholders to unite in the effort to create a secure and peaceful Anambra.

The current situation demands a collaborative approach, where every segment of society works together to combat the threats we face.

Only through unity and cooperation can we hope to achieve a safe and healthy environment for all,” the statement concluded.

Dr. Stephen Ezeh was kidnapped in Ihiala on the 15th of August, an incident that sent shockwaves through the medical community in Anambra State. In response, the NMA issued a 48-hour ultimatum, after which they directed all medical practitioners in the state to cease work on the 22nd of August.

The strike, though short-lived, underscored the severe impact of insecurity on the state’s healthcare system.

With Dr. Ezeh’s release and the resumption of services, the focus now shifts to preventing such occurrences in the future.

The NMA’s appeal for enhanced security measures is a crucial step towards safeguarding the lives of medical professionals and ensuring the continuous delivery of healthcare services in Anambra State.

The association remains committed to working with the government and other stakeholders to achieve a secure and healthy environment for all residents.