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Abia doctors suspend strike after surgeon's release from captivity
🇳🇬 Nigeria /Health & Science

Abia doctors suspend strike after surgeon's release from captivity

From Premium Times · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Nigerian doctors in Abia State suspended a planned strike after a surgeon was released from captivity.
  • Orthopaedic surgeon Bonaventure Aguocha was freed on June 1 after nine days, prompting the NMA to call off the industrial action.
  • The NMA condemned the recurring abduction of healthcare workers and urged the government to improve security.

Doctors in Nigeria's Abia State have suspended an indefinite strike planned to begin June 2, following the release of a renowned orthopaedic surgeon who had been held captive for nine days. Bonaventure Aguocha was abducted on May 24 while traveling between states and was freed on June 1.

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

— NMA Abia State chapterIn a statement confirming the surgeon's release.

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Abia State confirmed Aguocha's release in a statement, expressing gratitude to God, government officials from Abia and Imo states, and security agencies for their roles in securing his freedom. The association also acknowledged the public's prayers and advocacy during the ordeal.

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

— NMA Abia State chapterAcknowledging those involved in the surgeon's release.

While relieved by Aguocha's safe return, the NMA used the statement to condemn the persistent abduction of healthcare professionals. The association highlighted the unresolved case of another doctor, Mr. Iweha, who has been missing since 2020. The NMA warned that such targeting of medical personnel severely disrupts healthcare delivery and demoralizes professionals already working under difficult conditions.

The recurring targeting of doctors can be seen in the still unresolved case of Mr Iweha, a professor since 2020. This severely undermines healthcare delivery and the morale of professionals working under already difficult conditions.

— NMA Abia State chapterCondemning the abduction of healthcare workers and highlighting a previous case.

The NMA called on federal and state governments to urgently enhance security measures for healthcare workers and facilities. They also demanded a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible for abductions to deter future incidents. The association reaffirmed its commitment to serving the people of Abia and engaging with authorities to ensure a safe working environment for all doctors, while wishing Aguocha a swift recovery from the trauma.

We call on the federal and state governments to urgently strengthen security around healthcare workers and facilities.

— NMA Abia State chapterDemanding improved security for medical professionals.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Premium Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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