By Patrick Obia
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Cross River chapter has declared an indefinite strike action over colleagues’ kidnap.
NMA, in a release signed by its Chairman – Dr. Felix Archibong, and Secretary – Dr. Etim Amaku, the Association said the action is in solidarity with their members who are in captivity.
Dr. Joshua Omini, a staff member with the General Hospital Ugep, Dr. Ekpo Egong of the General Hospital, Calabar, alongside Mr. Anozeng Egbe, a Project Manager of Faith Global Int’l Services Ltd (a.k.a Faith Plant) were the latest to be whisked away by unknown gunmen on Friday, November 18, 2022, demanding N100 million for the two medical doctors.
The association charged the government to “activate all necessary instruments at its disposal to ensure the timely and unconditional release of our members in the hands of their abductors,” regretting any “hardship these decisions may cause to its members and the general public.”
“Members observed the deplorable state of the road especially from Okomita to Uyanga, all in Akamkpa local government area.
“This deplorable state of the road causes vehicular movement around that area to proceed at minimal speed, hence providing an advantage to these criminal elements to perpetuate their evil intentions.
“NMA in Cross River has embarked on an indefinite strike from Monday, Nov. 21 2022 in solidarity with her members still in the hands of their abductors.
“The government should activate all necessary instruments at its disposal to ensure the timely and unconditional release of our members in the hands of their abductors.
“The state government should as a matter of urgency provide security checkpoints and patrol vehicles at the vulnerable areas of the road.”
“NMA in Cross River is not oblivious of the hardship its strike action will have on the good people of Cross River, however, we appeal to all the relevant security agencies to ensure a timely release of our abducted colleagues.”