Doctors In Abia Threaten Indefinite Strike Over Abducted Surgeon

The Nigerian Medical Association, Abia State branch, has issued a 24 hour ultimatum to security agencies and the governments of Abia and Imo states to secure the release of abducted orthopaedic surgeon, Bonaventure Aguocha.

The association warned that failure to secure his freedom could lead to a total and indefinite strike across the state beginning from 8 a.m. on Tuesday.

The decision was contained in a communiqué jointly signed by the NMA Chairman, Ezenwa Ezuruike, and Secretary, Clement Ifenkoronye, following an emergency meeting held in Umuahia on Monday.

According to the association, Aguocha was abducted on May 24 while returning to Umuahia from Imo State.

The NMA described the surgeon as a teacher, mentor and former chairman of the association in Abia, noting that he had rendered years of selfless medical service in both Abia and Imo states.

The association said the incident reflects a growing pattern of attacks targeting medical professionals in Nigeria. It referenced the unresolved 2020 abduction of former Chief Medical Director of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Uwadinachi Iweha.

The communiqué stated that doctors have increasingly become victims of harassment, intimidation and kidnapping despite working under difficult conditions marked by poor remuneration and inadequate motivation.

The association called on the Department of State Services, the Inspector General of Police, and the Commissioners of Police in Abia and Imo states to intensify efforts toward Aguocha’s rescue.

It also appealed to the governors of both states to deploy all necessary resources and influence to ensure his prompt release.

The NMA further urged traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies and well meaning Nigerians to support efforts aimed at securing the surgeon’s freedom.

The association warned that failure to act within the stipulated timeframe could worsen healthcare delivery and reduce healthcare workers’ confidence in the government’s ability to guarantee their safety.

Kidnapping for ransom has continued to spread across many parts of Nigeria, with professionals, students, clerics and other citizens increasingly becoming targets.