The Anambra State branch of the Nigeria Medical Association has called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo and security agencies to secure the release of Dr. Tochukwu Mbanugo, a consultant neurosurgeon who was abducted on October 30. The plea was made in a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency general meeting held on Saturday.

According to the association, Dr. Mbanugo was kidnapped in front of his hospital at Uruagu, Nnewi, in the evening of October 30. The assailants have not established communication with his family, relatives, friends, or colleagues. The Nigeria Medical Association has given the Anambra government a 72-hour ultimatum to secure Dr. Mbanugo’s immediate release.

If the deadline is not met, the association has threatened that all doctors in Anambra State will embark on a strike until their colleague is released. The doctors have assured the public that they will continue to deliver quality healthcare services despite the prevailing challenges. Relevant government agencies have been informed of the situation.

As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, for comment were unsuccessful. The abduction of Dr. Mbanugo has sparked concern among the medical community, and the Nigeria Medical Association is seeking urgent action from the government to ensure his safe release.

The incident highlights the growing concern about insecurity in Anambra State and its impact on healthcare professionals. The Nigeria Medical Association has reiterated its commitment to providing quality healthcare services to the people of Anambra State, despite the challenges posed by the abduction of one of its members. The association is hopeful that the government will take prompt action to secure Dr. Mbanugo’s release and ensure the safety of healthcare professionals in the state.