The Anambra chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association has decided to end its indefinite strike after one of its members, Dr. Stephen Ezeh, was released by his abductors.
The association had initiated the strike in protest of Dr. Ezeh’s kidnapping, which occurred in Ihiala.
Through a statement signed by Dr. Princeston Okam and Dr. Ifeanyi Obiaeli, the Chairman and Secretary of the association, it was announced on Sunday that the strike was called off following Dr. Ezeh’s release.
Dr. Ezeh was abducted on August 15 in Ihiala, prompting the NMA to declare the strike on August 22 after issuing a 48-hour ultimatum.
The NMA chapter has now directed its members to resume work, expressing gratitude to the people of Anambra for their support during this challenging period and hoping that such incidents do not recur.
The statement also acknowledged the solidarity and perseverance of colleagues in the healthcare sector amidst security challenges and urged them to remain dedicated to providing healthcare services to the people of Anambra.
“The total and indefinite strike action called by the NMA Anambra Branch to protest the kidnapping of our member, Dr. Stephen Ezeh, is hereby called off following his release.
“We appreciate the good people of Anambra for bearing with us through these trying times, and we earnestly pray that such tribulation will not arise again.
“We also appreciate our colleagues for their solidarity and resilience in the face of the challenges facing the sector, particularly insecurity, and urge them to remain resolute and committed to delivering healthcare to the people of Anambra,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the NMA urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to declare a state of emergency on security in the state, emphasizing that the rise in insecurity and kidnappings is adversely affecting the state’s economy and healthcare services.
The association called upon the public, security agencies, professional organizations, and businesses to collaborate with the governor in fostering a peaceful, secure, and healthy environment in Anambra.
