The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Abia branch, has suspended its indefinite strike scheduled from June 2 following the release of Dr Bonaventure Aguocha, a renowned Orthopaedic Surgeon from captivity.
Aguocha was abducted on May 24 while returning to Umuahia from Imo.
The strike’s suspension was contained in a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Ezenwa Ezuruike and Secretary, Dr Clement Ifenkoronye and issued newsmen in Umuahia on.Tuesday.
The association in the statement, disclosed that Aguocha regained his freedom on June 2 after spending nine days in captivity.
“We thank God for preserving his life and for his safe return to his family, colleagues, and patients.
“We express profound appreciation to the Gov. Dr Alex Otti of Abia, Sen. Hope Uzodimma of Imo, the Department of State Services (DSS) the Nigeria Police Force, among others involved in his release.
“We also acknowledge the prayers, solidarity and sustained advocacy of the public, during the ordeal,” the statement read.
The association while expressing relief at Aguocha’s release, condemned the recurring abduction of healthcare workers warning that such should not be normalised.
It expressed profound appreciation to the Gov. Dr Alex Otti of Abia, his counterpart in Imo, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and all security agencies involved in securing his release.
The association also acknowledged members of the public, the media, and fellow healthcare workers for their prayers, solidarity and sustained advocacy during the ordeal.
“The recurring targeting of doctors, as seen in the still unresolved case of Prof. Iweha since 2020, severely undermines healthcare delivery and the morale of professionals working under already difficult conditions,” the statement said.
The association called on the federal and state governments to urgently strengthen security around healthcare workers and facilities.
It also demanded a thorough investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators to serve as a deterrent.
Following Aguocha’s safe release and in line with Congress’ earlier directive, the association announced the immediate suspension of the total and indefinite strike action scheduled to begin June 2.
“The total and indefinite strike action is hereby suspended,” it stated.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to serving the people of Abia and pledged to continue engaging government and security agencies to guarantee a safe working environment for all doctors.
It also wished Aguocha a speedy recovery from the physical and psychological trauma of the incident.
