THE Kogi State Chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to security agencies to secure the release of its kidnapped members, Dr Austin Uwumagbe.
The Chairman of the Association, Dr Baoku Olusola, issued this ultimate on Frida during a news conference in Lokoja.
It will be recalled that Dr Uwumagbe was kidnapped on Tuesday September 19, 2023.
Following the kidnap, the NMA has now warned that they will embark on an indefinite strike action, commencing on Monday next week, should security agencies fail to rescue their member.
The kidnapped Doctor was whisked away by the Kidnappers on Tuesday night at about half past eight while on his way home from his work place, Victory Hospital-Annex, in Ogaminana, Adavi Local Government Area.
The NMA Chairman revealed that Dr Austin was whisked away after supervising a labour procedure.
Dr Olusola charged the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, President Ahmed Tinubu, acting Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, and heads of security agencies in Nigeria to ensure the victim is returned safely.
“Many of our colleagues have travelled out of the country for safety and better opportunities, and those of us who decided to remain—the community we care for now sees it as a threat.
“One of us has been kidnapped despite our quality healthcare delivery service to the state.
“Our colleague is suffering at the hands of his captors.
“We have yet to hear anything from security agencies.
“The family is currently in sorrow and depression, and doctors across the 21 local government areas of the state are living in fear because we don’t know who is next,” Dr Olusola stated.