The Anambra State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to Governor Chukwuma Soludo and security agencies to secure the release of Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, a consultant neurosurgeon with Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, who was kidnapped on October 30.
In a communiqué signed by the association’s chairman, Dr. Princeston Okam, and secretary, Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, after an emergency general meeting on Saturday, the NMA condemned the abduction and urged the state government to act swiftly to ensure the doctor’s safe return. The association said Dr. Mbanugo was abducted in front of the hospital at Uruagu, Nnewi, in the evening and that no contact had yet been made with his family, friends, or colleagues.
The NMA warned that if Dr. Mbanugo is not released within 72 hours, all doctors in Anambra State would embark on an indefinite strike. The body also announced plans to reconvene in three days to review developments and decide on the next course of action.
While reaffirming their commitment to providing quality healthcare despite mounting security challenges, the NMA stressed that the safety of medical practitioners must be treated as a priority.
