Mirian Gom 
UMUAHIA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Abia State chapter, has announced the release of kidnapped orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Uche Bonaventure Aguocha, ending nine days of anxiety among medical professionals and patients across the state.
The association confirmed that Dr Aguocha regained his freedom on Tuesday after being abducted on 26 May, prompting widespread concern within the healthcare community.
In a Wednesday statement jointly signed by NMA Chairman, Dr Ezenwa Ezuruike, and Secretary, Dr Clement Ifenkoronye, the association also suspended its planned indefinite strike scheduled to commence on 2 June.
“The Association expresses profound gratitude to the Government of Abia State, security agencies, healthcare workers, the media and members of the public whose efforts contributed to securing his release,” the statement read.
Dr Aguocha, a former chairman of the NMA in Abia State, was abducted under circumstances that sparked outrage among healthcare professionals.
The association thanked Governor Alex Otti, Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their roles in securing his freedom.
While celebrating the development, the NMA warned that the recurring abduction of healthcare workers poses a serious threat to healthcare delivery.
“The kidnap of healthcare workers is unacceptable and must not become normalised,” the association stated.
The doctors called on federal and state governments to strengthen security around hospitals and healthcare personnel and ensure those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
The NMA also wished Dr Aguocha a speedy recovery from the physical and psychological effects of his ordeal.
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