PeakNews Online
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State chapter, has ordered its members to halt clinical services across all private and public hospitals in the state following the abduction of their colleague, Dr. Stephen Ezeh.
The directive, effective immediately, comes after the expiration of a 48-hour ultimatum issued to the state government. Ezeh has been held captive since August 15, 2024, despite his deteriorating health, the association stated.
In a statement signed by Dr. Princeston Okam and Dr. Ifeanyi Obieli, following an emergency meeting on Thursday, the NMA announced the suspension of services in Federal, State, Private, Mission, Institutional, and Corporate hospitals in Anambra. The association emphasized that it would closely monitor compliance through a “Strike Monitoring Team,” and any member or institution failing to adhere to the directive would face penalties.
“NMA Anambra will blacklist and penalize defaulting hospitals in line with Congress resolutions,” the statement read.
The association urged the Anambra State government to activate all necessary security measures to ensure the timely and unconditional release of Dr. Ezeh. It expressed awareness of the hardship this action would impose on residents but stressed that securing Ezeh’s freedom would restore stability to the healthcare system.
“We appeal to the state government to expedite efforts in securing our colleague’s release to resume normal medical services,” the NMA said.
The association also commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, for their ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery and security in the state. Additionally, it praised doctors for their dedication to providing quality healthcare despite the challenges.
The withdrawal of services will continue until further notice, pending the release of Dr. Ezeh.
