Abia Doctors End Planned Strike After Surgeon is Freed

The Abia State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called off the indefinite strike it was set to start on June 2. This decision came after the release of popular orthopaedic surgeon Bonaventure Aguocha from captivity.

Mr Aguocha was kidnapped on May 24 while he was coming back to Umuahia, Abia State from Imo State.

In a statement released on Tuesday in Umuahia, the association’s Chairman, Ezenwa Ezuruike, and Secretary, Clement Ifenkoronye, confirmed that the surgeon was freed on June 1 after spending nine days in the hands of his captors.

“We thank God for preserving his life and for his safe return to his family, colleagues, and patients.

“We express profound appreciation to Gov. Alex Otti of Abia, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and others involved in his release.

“We also acknowledge the prayers, solidarity, and sustained advocacy of the public during the ordeal,” the statement said.

The NMA expressed relief at Mr Aguocha’s release but condemned the ongoing abduction of healthcare workers. They stressed that such actions should not become normal.

“The ongoing targeting of doctors is evident in the unresolved case of Mr Iweha, a professor, since 2020.

“This greatly undermines healthcare delivery and the morale of professionals who are already working in tough conditions.

“We call on the federal and state governments to urgently improve security for healthcare workers and facilities,” the statement continued.

The association also demanded a complete investigation and punishment for the people behind such terrible acts, to discourage others from acting similarly.

“Aguocha’s safe release, according to our earlier directive, has led to the immediate suspension of the total and indefinite strike.

“We reaffirm our commitment to serving the people of Abia and continuing our work with government and security agencies to ensure a safe working environment for all doctors.

“We also wish Aguocha a speedy recovery from the physical and psychological trauma of this incident.