The Edo State branch of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has vowed to continue its ongoing strike until its abducted colleague is safely released.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Dr Eustace Oseghale, and Secretary, Dr Iluobe Inegbenosun, on Wednesday in Benin City, the association said the decision was prompted by the deteriorating security situation in the state.
The NMA expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of Dr Abu Babatunde, a medical doctor kidnapped in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, on January 1.
The association said medical services would remain suspended until there was a concrete assurance of Dr Babatunde’s safety.
“The protection of lives and property must be a top priority. Our member who was abducted in Auchi must be released unharmed. Until this is achieved, the ongoing strike will continue,” the statement said.
The NMA said the decision to sustain the strike followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders and would remain indefinite until the doctor is freed.
The association also called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to urgently restructure the state’s security framework to address rising cases of kidnapping and violent crime. It suggested integrating local vigilance groups with proper monitoring and assessment mechanisms to improve security response across communities.
The union condemned reported intimidation of doctors, warning that such actions could worsen the crisis rather than resolve it. It urged the state government to demonstrate urgent commitment to protecting lives and property.
The NMA further warned that private medical practitioners might join the strike if Dr Babatunde was not released and security concerns were not promptly addressed.
