The Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association has announced that medical services across the state will be suspended from Saturday in response to the abduction of two doctors.
According to the association, the decision was taken to protest the worsening security situation and the increasing attacks targeting health workers in the state.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Edo NMA Chairman, Dr Eustace Oseghale, said doctors could no longer assure their safety while carrying out their professional duties.
He explained that the abductions, which occurred on January 1 and 2, have deepened fear among medical personnel and intensified calls for urgent and improved security measures.
One of the abducted victims, identified as Dr Babatunde Abu, was kidnapped in Auchi, with his abductors reportedly demanding a N100m ransom.
Oseghale said the development underscored the vulnerability of doctors in Edo, adding that the association would not resume services until there was a clear commitment to the safety of its members and the release of those kidnapped.
“We will continue to withhold services until our colleagues are released and adequate security measures are implemented.
“We urge a swift resolution and expect security agencies to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves,” Oseghale said.
The association also urged the Edo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and prevent a recurrence across health facilities in the state.
