Anambra doctors call off strike

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Anambra Branch, has called off the indefinite strike it embarked upon to protest the kidnapping of Dr. Stephen Ezeh, a private practitioner based in Ihiala.

In a statement signed by Dr. Princeston Okam and Dr. Ifeanyi Obiaeli, the Chairman and Secretary of the NMA Anambra Branch, respectively, the association announced on Sunday that the decision followed the release of Dr. Ezeh from his captors.

Recall that Dr. Ezeh was kidnapped in Ihiala on August 15, leading the NMA to direct its members to down tools on August 22, after issuing a prior 48-hour ultimatum.

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The NMA has now instructed its members to return to work and expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed in any way toward securing Dr. Ezeh’s release.

“The total and indefinite strike action called by the NMA Anambra Branch to protest the kidnapping of our member, Dr. Stephen Ezeh, is hereby called off following his release.

“Clinical services will resume at 08:00 hours on Sunday, August 25.

“We appreciate the good people of Anambra for bearing with us through these trying times, and we earnestly pray that such tribulation will not arise again.

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“We also appreciate our colleagues for their solidarity and resilience in the face of the challenges facing the sector, particularly insecurity, and urge them to remain resolute and committed to delivering healthcare to the people of Anambra,” the statement said.

The NMA urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to declare a state of emergency on security in Anambra, highlighting that the growing insecurity and kidnappings are crippling the state’s economy and healthcare delivery.

The doctors called on the general public, security agencies, professional bodies, and corporate entities to join hands with the governor in achieving a peaceful, secure, and healthy Anambra.