Starting Thursday night, the Nigerian Medical Association in Anambra has directed its members to withdraw clinical services in all private and public hospitals.

The directive is contained in a statement issued in Awka by the branch chairman and secretary, Princeston Okam and Ifeanyi Obiaeli, at the end of the association’s emergency general meeting on Thursday.

They stated that the directive was to protest against the kidnapping of their colleague, Stephen Ezeh, who had been in captivity since August 15.

NMA had on August 19 threatened to down tools if Mr Ezeh was not released by his abductors within 48 hours. The association stated that 48 hours after the ultimatum had elapsed, in addition to its appeal to the Anambra government, Mr Ezeh was still held by his abductors despite his health challenge.

“NMA Anambra hereby directs all doctors in the state to forthwith withdraw clinical services in all federal, state, private, mission, institutional and corporate hospitals in the state until our member is released.

“That NMA Anambra will painstakingly monitor compliance with the above directive through her ‘Strike Monitoring Team’ and that defaulting hospitals and members will be blacklisted and penalised, in line with the congress resolutions.

“That Anambra Government should activate all necessary security agencies and instruments at its disposal to ensure ’timely and unconditional release of our abducted member. NMA is not oblivious of the hardship this withdrawal of services will cause the good people of Anambra,” the statement said.

It added, “However, we appeal to the state government to expedite action towards securing Eze’s release so as to restore normalcy to the health system. NMA Anambra leadership will continue to work together with all relevant government agencies to collectively achieve a healthy and secured populace.”

The NMA lauded Governor Charles Soludo and the health commissioner, Afam Obidike, for their efforts towards improving health care delivery and security in Anambra.

It also commended doctors for their resolve and commitment to offering quality health care to the Anambra people.

(NAN)