Abia Doctors Threaten Indefinite Strike Over Abducted Orthopaedic Surgeon
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), 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, Dr. Bonaventure Aguocha, or face an indefinite strike action by doctors across the state.
The resolution was reached during an Emergency General Meeting of the association held in Umuahia following the continued captivity of Dr. Aguocha, a former Chairman of the NMA in Abia State, who was reportedly kidnapped on May 24 while returning to Umuahia from Imo State.
In a communiqué jointly signed by the NMA Chairman, Dr. Ezenwa Ezuruike, and Secretary, Dr. Clement Ifenkoronye, the association warned that doctors in the state would commence a total and indefinite strike from 8:00 a.m. if the renowned surgeon is not released within the stipulated period.
The association described Dr. Aguocha as a distinguished medical practitioner, mentor, teacher, and former NMA leader whose contributions to healthcare development in Abia and Imo States have been immense.
Condemning the abduction, the NMA said the incident reflects the worsening insecurity facing healthcare professionals, noting that doctors have increasingly become victims of kidnapping, intimidation, harassment, and violent attacks despite their commitment to saving lives under challenging working conditions.
The association also referenced the unresolved abduction of former Chief Medical Director of Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Uwadinachi Iweha, in 2020, describing the latest incident as part of a disturbing trend of attacks targeting medical personnel.
The doctors called on the Department of State Services (DSS), the Inspector-General of Police, and the Commissioners of Police in Abia and Imo States to intensify efforts toward the immediate rescue and safe return of their colleague.
They further appealed to the governors of both states to deploy all necessary resources and influence to facilitate Dr. Aguocha’s release, while urging traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and concerned Nigerians to support efforts aimed at securing his freedom.
The NMA warned that any failure to act decisively within the given timeframe would not only force doctors to withdraw their services indefinitely but could also deepen concerns over the safety of healthcare workers and negatively impact healthcare delivery in Abia and neighbouring states.
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