Anambra Doctors Threaten Strike as Abducted Colleague Remains Missing

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State chapter, has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the state government to ensure the immediate release of one of its members, Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, who was abducted in Uruagu, Nnewi North Local Government Area or they will down tools.

The association, in a communiqué signed by its Chairman, Dr. Princeston Okam, and Secretary, Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, after an Emergency General Meeting held on Saturday, called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo and security agencies to take urgent and decisive action to secure the freedom of Dr. Mbanugo, who was kidnapped on October 30 According to the communiqué, Dr. Mbanugo, a Consultant Neurosurgeon with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, was abducted in front of his hospital at Uruagu, Nnewi, on the evening of October 30. The association described the incident as shocking and unacceptable, lamenting that the continuous targeting of medical professionals in the state poses a serious threat to healthcare delivery The NMA stated that a strike monitoring team had been constituted to ensure full compliance should industrial action commence, stressing that the threat was a last resort to compel authorities to act. It added that the continuous abduction of doctors and other health workers has left many demoralized and fearful of attending to patients, especially in remote areas. Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command confirmed the abduction, noting that investigations were ongoing to trace and apprehend the culprits. The command assured that all efforts were being made to secure Dr. Mbanugo’s safe release The association appealed to the state government and relevant security agencies to intensify surveillance, improve intelligence sharing, and prioritize the safety of medical professionals. It also urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement to ensure that perpetrators of such crimes are swiftly brought to justice The NMA emphasized that the safety of doctors and other healthcare providers remains non-negotiable, warning that failure to act promptly could lead to a total shutdown of medical services across the state.