Anambra doctors to strike over abduction of colleague

Doctors in Anambra State, represented by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Anambra Branch, have issued a strong demand for the immediate and unconditional release of their colleague, Dr. Steven Ezeh, who was abducted by unknown assailants. The NMA held an emergency meeting on Monday, where they set a 48-hour ultimatum for Dr. Ezeh's release, warning that they would withdraw their services across the state if their demand was not met.

Dr. Ezeh, a private medical practitioner and Managing Director of Vera Clinic Ihiala, was kidnapped on August 15 outside his residence in Umunnamehi Village, Ihiala, within Ihiala Local Government Area. The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦40 million, later reducing it to ₦30 million within the last 24 hours.

In a communiqué signed by NMA Chairman Dr. Princeton Okam and Secretary Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, the association condemned the alarming rise in kidnappings and the overall insecurity in Anambra State. They called on the state government and security agencies to take immediate action to address the situation and secure Dr. Ezeh’s release.

The NMA also expressed its appreciation for Governor Chukwuma Soludo's efforts to improve the healthcare sector in Anambra State but urged that more robust measures be implemented to combat the growing insecurity. The association encouraged its members to continue providing high-quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare to the people of Anambra, despite the current challenges. However, they made it clear that if Dr. Ezeh is not released within the 48-hour timeframe, they will be forced to take drastic action, including a state-wide strike, to secure the safety and freedom of their colleague.