Doctors Threaten Statewide Strike in Anambra Over Abduction of Medical Practitioner
Doctors Threaten Statewide Strike in Anambra Over Abduction of Medical Practitioner
Fresh concerns over insecurity in Anambra State have emerged as the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State chapter, threatened to embark on an indefinite withdrawal of medical services following the abduction of a medical doctor, Dr. Edwin Emegakor.
The association issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Anambra State Government and security agencies, demanding the immediate rescue and safe release of the kidnapped doctor or risk a total shutdown of healthcare services across the state.
Dr. Emegakor, who is the Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital, Nkpor, was reportedly abducted on May 7, 2026, by unidentified gunmen said to be dressed in security uniforms shortly after attending to patients at his hospital.
The decision was reached during an emergency meeting of the NMA in Anambra, where members expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity targeting healthcare professionals and residents within the state.
In a communiqué jointly signed by the association’s chairman, Dr. Princeston Okam, and secretary, Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, the medical body condemned the worsening security situation and called on authorities to intensify efforts toward securing the doctor’s release.
The association warned that failure to rescue the abducted doctor within the stipulated period would force doctors across Anambra State to suspend medical services indefinitely until their colleague regains freedom.
According to the NMA, the abductors had not established communication with the victim’s family, friends, or colleagues as of the time the meeting was held.
The doctors further stressed that the recurring cases of kidnapping and attacks on healthcare workers pose serious threats to healthcare delivery and the safety of medical professionals in the state.
The association, however, commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Anambra State Ministry of Health for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services while urging the government to strengthen security measures across the state.
Observers say the threat of a statewide strike by doctors could significantly affect healthcare delivery in Anambra if urgent action is not taken to resolve the situation.
