Virtually all medical facilities in Cross River State are currently impacted by an indefinite strike action led by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Cross River State branch, due to unaddressed concerns.
The association made this decision during an emergency meeting held after the kidnapping of their member, Prof. Ephraim Ekanem.
It’s worth noting that Ekanem’s kidnap took place on July 23, 2023, at her clinic in Atimbo by Mountain of Fire Street, Calabar Municipality LGA, Cross River State.
In the meantime, her captors have insisted on a ransom of N15 million for her safe release.
Yesterday, the NMA issued a communique in Calabar, co-signed by Chairman Dr. Felix Archibong and Secretary Dr. Amaku, wherein they demanded her release without conditions and without delay.
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In acknowledgment of their dedicated efforts, the association applauded the state government and security agencies responsible for securing her immediate freedom.
The communique reads: ‘Despite all these efforts as stated above, our colleague still remains in captivity after 72hours.’
‘After an emergency meeting, we resolved as follows: to embark on a total and indefinite withdrawal of medical services effective immediately in solidarity with our member still in the hands of her abductors.
‘This withdrawal of medical service will involve all hospitals in Cross River State including federal, state, private, mission and cottage hospitals in Cross River State.’
NMA Chairman, Dr. Felix Archibon, speaking to reporters yesterday, stated that the abductors of Prof. Ekanem have specified a N15 million ransom as a condition for her release.
‘Where do they expect her to get that kind of money from at this critical time. NMA-CRS is not on strike. We are only withdrawing medical services, so that kidnappers can take over the treatment of sick Cross Riverians,’ he said.
Expectations are high for the prompt release of Prof. Ephraim Ekanem, given her significant contributions to the medical department.
As a result of this situation, the industrial action has been initiated to garner greater attention from relevant authorities, emphasising the critical need to ensure her safe release and prevent any negligence that may result in much uglier developments.