By Archibong Jeremiah
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Cross River Chapter on Thursday embarked on an indefinite strike over the kidnap of the wife of their colleague, Mrs. Christiana Ekanem, a staff of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).
In a communiqué jointly signed by the State NMA Chairman, Dr. Agam Ayuk, and the Secretary, Dr. Ezoke Epoke the strike will continue until their colleague is released.
The Association revealed that arising from its Emergency General Meeting held on January 8, 2018 the members unanimously agreed to down tools as it regrey.
They further disclosed that from 2017 till date, no fewer than 15 medical doctors and their dependents have been kidnapped for ransom within the State.
Extract from the communiqué, “The unfortunate incident of the kidnap of the wife of a member of NMA is worrisome. She was kidnapped at her home in Satellite Town in Calabar on Macrh 10, 2020. The NMA in Cross River is not unmindful of the impact of the withdrawal of medical services on the good people of Cross River.
“However, we cannot continue to save lives while we are under constant threat by armed bandits and kidnappers. NMA in Cross River has proceeded on a total and indefinite withdrawal of medical services in both the private, public and institutional hospitals in the State.
“This include University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Federal Neuro Psychiatry Hospital, General Hospital, Medical Centres, Mission Hospitals and Private Clinics with immediate effects”.
They called on the Federal and State Government and security agencies to expedite action and ensure the unconditional release of all victims currently in the captivity of kidnappers.
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