Anambra Doctors Warn of Strike Amid Colleague’s Abduction.

Members of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Anambra State have issued a strong demand for the immediate and unconditional release of Dr. Steven Ezeh, a colleague who was kidnapped by unknown assailants. Dr. Ezeh, a private practitioner in Ihiala Local Government Area, was abducted from his residence in Umunnamehi Village on August 15.

In response, the NMA convened an emergency meeting on Monday, where they issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the state government, threatening to withdraw their services statewide if Dr. Ezeh is not released. The communique, signed by NMA Chairman Dr. Princeston Okam and Secretary Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, condemned the rising kidnappings and insecurity in the state, urging the government and security agencies to take swift action.

The kidnappers initially demanded a N40 million ransom, which was later reduced to N30 million. The NMA has warned that if Dr. Ezeh is not freed within 48 hours, all doctors in Anambra will go on strike.

The association also acknowledged the efforts of Governor Chukwuma Soludo's administration to improve the health sector and called for immediate action to address the growing insecurity in the state. Despite the crisis, the NMA encouraged its members to continue providing quality healthcare services to the people of Anambra.