Doctors’ abduction: NMA suspends medical services in Edo

Edo map

The Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association has announced the suspension of medical services across the state from Saturday, following the abduction of two doctors.

The association said the action became necessary in protest against the rising insecurity and repeated attacks on health workers in the state.

The NMA Chairman in Edo, Dr Eustace Oseghale, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, saying doctors in the state could no longer guarantee their safety while discharging their duties.

He said the kidnap incidents, which occurred on January 1 and 2, had further heightened fear among medical practitioners and triggered urgent calls for improved security.

One of the abducted victims, identified as Dr Babatunde Abu, was kidnapped in Auchi, with his abductors reportedly demanding a N100m ransom. Oseghale said the development underscored the vulnerability of doctors in Edo, adding that the association would not resume services until there was a clear commitment to the safety of its members and the release of those kidnapped.

“We will continue to withhold services until our colleagues are released and adequate security measures are implemented.

“We urge a swift resolution and expect security agencies to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves,” Oseghale said.

The association also urged the Edo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and prevent a recurrence across health facilities in the state. Punch