Kidnapping: NMA withdraws its members from govt, private hospitals

Ini Billie, Uyo

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Akwa Ibom State, said it has withdrawn its services from all government and private hospitals over the kidnap of their member.

It was learnt that a member of the group, Dr John Robbin Esu, was kidnapped in Oron Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State on April 30, 2024, and has been in captivity for 15 days, a situation which propelled the decision.

NMA State Chairman, Prof. Emem Abraham, who said the withdrawal of its services was immediate and would be reviewed every 72 hours, said the group had been traumatized by the incident and is not in a good frame of mind to continue serving the public until the matter is resolved.

Prof Abraham stated on Thursday in Uyo that the decision was based on the resolution taken by the association after its emergency general meeting held on May 15, 2024 at the Doctors’ Messs in Uyo.

“The Nigerian Medical Association AKS has resorted to withdrawing services from all Government and Private Hospitals in Akwa Ibom State in sympathy with our member who has been in captivity for 15 days.

“This withdrawal of services takes immediate effect and shall be reviewed after 72 hours. The entire members of our Association have been psychologically traumatized by this unfortunate situation and are not in a good frame of mind to continue serving the public; Dr John Robbin Esu remains in the kidnappers’ den,” he stated.

Abraham called on the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno to ensure the safe release of Dr Esu unhurt within the shortest period.