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AWKA, ANAMBRA STATE — Healthcare services in Anambra State are on the brink of a massive shutdown as the state branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a strict 48-hour ultimatum to the government and security agencies. The urgent declaration follows the harrowing abduction of a prominent physician, Dr. Edwin Emegakor.
The Abduction at Nkpor
Dr. Emegakor, the Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital located in Nkpor, was kidnapped on the evening of Thursday, May 7, 2026. According to the NMA, the doctor was taken away shortly after attending to his patients. Disturbingly, eyewitnesses reported that the perpetrators were unidentified men dressed in security uniforms.
As of Saturday morning, May 9, the kidnappers had not yet established any form of communication with Dr. Emegakor’s family, friends, or medical colleagues, raising intense fears for his safety.
The NMA’s Ultimatum and Demands
In response to the alarming incident, the Anambra State NMA convened an Emergency General Meeting on Saturday. Following the session, the association released a strongly worded communiqué signed by its Chairman, Dr. Princeston Okam, and Secretary, Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi.
The medical body thoroughly condemned the incident and issued a stark warning: if Dr. Emegakor is not unconditionally released within 48 hours, doctors across all healthcare facilities in Anambra will officially “down tools” and commence a total, indefinite strike.
“NMA Anambra condemns this recent kidnapping and insecurity and calls on the government and security agencies to rise up to this challenge immediately,” the joint communiqué read. “If at the expiration of the above timeline our member’s release is not secured, all the doctors in Anambra under the aegis of the NMA will down tools until our member is released.”
Appeals to Governor Soludo and Security Agencies
The association has urgently called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Anambra State Police Command to deploy all necessary intelligence and operational resources to intensify rescue efforts. While making their demands, the NMA also took a moment to appreciate the ongoing efforts of Governor Soludo and the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Ben Obidike, in improving healthcare delivery—but stressed that the rising tide of insecurity critically undermines these advancements and puts the lives of essential workers at risk.
A Call for Continued Service—For Now
Despite the looming threat of a sector-wide strike, the NMA leadership appealed to its members to remain steadfast during the 48-hour window. They urged doctors to continue providing essential, affordable, and quality healthcare services to the residents of Anambra State while the ultimatum is active, acknowledging their commitment under dangerous circumstances.
“It is our hope that your sacrifices shall not go unrewarded,” the association added.
This is a developing breaking news story. Stay tuned to ABT NEWS at www.abtnews.net for real-time updates as the 48-hour deadline approaches
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