Doctors under the umbrella of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Edo State Branch, have resolved to continue their ongoing strike action over what they described as worsening insecurity across the state, following the abduction of one of their members in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area.
The association said medical services in public health facilities would remain suspended until the kidnapped doctor is released unharmed, warning that the situation could escalate if urgent action is not taken by the state government.
In a joint statement signed by the Edo NMA Chairman, Dr. Eustace Oseghale, and the State Secretary, Dr. Iluobe Inegbenosun, the doctors condemned the prevailing security situation, describing it as unacceptable and a direct threat to healthcare delivery.
The NMA leadership called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to immediately initiate a comprehensive restructuring of Edo State’s security architecture. According to the association, such an overhaul should prioritise the integration of local vigilante groups, supported by strict monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, to effectively address the growing wave of insecurity.
Dr. Oseghale explained that the decision to extend the strike followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders within the association, stressing that the safety of healthcare workers must not be compromised.
The security of lives and property is paramount and must not be treated lightly. Our member who was abducted in Auchi must be released unharmed. Until that happens, doctors in Edo State will continue with the withdrawal of services,” he said.
He further noted that the continuation of the strike was necessary not only to secure the release of their colleague but also to draw attention to the broader security challenges confronting the state.
The NMA also expressed concern over reported cases of intimidation of doctors during the strike, warning that such actions could further escalate the dispute and deepen the crisis in the health sector.
The association urged the Edo State Government to demonstrate, as a matter of urgency, a clear commitment to safeguarding lives and property, adding that failure to achieve a speedy resolution could see private medical practitioners joining the industrial action.
Health sector observers warn that a prolonged shutdown of medical services could have serious implications for public health and economic productivity in the state if the security concerns remain unresolved
