The Edo State Branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) is sounding the alarm over the recent kidnappings of medical doctors in the state.
Chairman Dr. Eustace Oseghale is calling on Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo and Police Commissioner CP Monday Agbonika to take action against the rising insecurity .
The NMA’s concerns come after two doctors, Abu Ibrahim Babatunde and Abu Tahir, were kidnapped in Auchi, with one of them, Tahir, tragically killed
. Governor Okpebholo has vowed to intensify efforts to combat kidnapping and other crimes, assuring the public that those responsible will be brought to justice .
The kidnappings have taken a toll on healthcare delivery in the state, and the NMA is urging authorities to act swiftly to restore security.
“We write to formally notify your esteemed office of the abduction of two of our members, Dr. Abu Babatunde and Dr. Stephen Osamaye working at Edo State University Teaching Hospital, Auchi and Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua respectively. Dr. Abu was kidnapped at the Auchi axis while Dr. Stephen was kidnapped at Illeh road, Ekpoma both in Edo State.
”The safety and security of our healthcare workers are of paramount importance, especially in light of the critical roles they play in maintaining public health. So also is the security and safety of every resident of Edo State.”Oseghale said.
The leadership of the NMA stated that, “The Nigerian Medical Association is deeply concerned about this incident and the rising trend of insecurity in the state which negatively affects health care delivery.
”We urge your office to take immediate and effective action to ensure the safe return of our abducted colleagues and to investigate this incident thoroughly.”
Doctors’ Safety in Peril: NMA Sounds Alarm Over Kidnappings in Edo
