Anambra NMA Demands Release Of Dr Emegakor, Issues 48-Hrs Shutdown Notice
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of one of its members Dr Edwin Emegakor who was abducted from his hospital on May.7.
The NMA, Anambra Branch which made the call in a Communiqué issued after its Emergency General Meeting on Saturday urged the government and Police Command Anambra to secure Emegakor’s safe and unconditional freedom.
The Communiqué which was signed by Dr Princeston Okam and Dr Obiaeli Ifeanyi, its Chairman and Secretary respectively said the doctors in Anambra would down tools if Emegakor did not regain freedom 48 hours after the publication.
Emegakor, the Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital Nkpor was abducted in the evening of May 7 after attending to his patients by unidentified alleged clad security agencies men in uniforms.
The NMA said the kidnappers were yet to establish communication with the family of Emegakor, his relatives, friends or colleagues as at Saturday.
The communiqué said relevant government agencies had been duly notified and were already taking action towards the release of Emegakor.
“NMA Anambra condemned this recent kidnapping and insecurity and called on the government and security agencies to rise up to this challenge immediately.
“A 48- hour ultimatum is hereby given to the Anambra Government to secure the immediate release of our colleague Dr Emegakor Edwin.
“If at the expiration of the above time line and our member’s release is not secured, all the doctors in Anambra under the aegis of NMA Anambra will down tools until our member is released.
“An emergency meeting will be convened within the next 48 hours to review the progress made so far,” it said.
The NMA appreciated Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, through the Commissioner of Health, Dr Afam Ben Obidike for efforts to enhance service delivery in the sector while calling for effective measures to tackle insecurity in the State.
The body also urged members to continue to work towards providing quality, affordable and accessible healthcare services to the people of Anambra in irrespective of the challenges.
“It is our hope that your sacrifices shall not go unrewarded,” it said.
