Anambra NMA threatens to down tools if release of kidnapped member is not secured within 72 hours

 

Kenechukwu Ofomah

Awka

 

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Anambra State on Sunday, has given the state government 72 hours to secure the release of its kidnapped member, Dr Tochukwu Mbanugo or face total shutdown of health service in the state.

The ultimatum was issued by the State Executive Council of the umbrella body for medical doctors, after an emergency meeting held on Saturday, to deliberate on the unfortunate incident of the kidnapping of Dr. Mbanugo.

It was gathered that Dr. Mbanugo was kidnapped in front of his hospital at Uruagu Nnewi on the evening of Thursday, 30^th October, 2025.

He is a Consultant Neurosurgeon with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, NAUTH Nnewi.

In a statement signed by the NMA State Chairman, Dr. Princeton Okam, and the Secretary, Dr. Ifeanyi Obiaeli, the association noted that the kidnappers have yet to establish any channel of communication with his family, relatives, friends or colleagues as at this time.

It also noted that the relevant government agencies have been duly notified and have already swung into action, geared towards his release.

“NMA Anambra state condemns this recent kidnapping and insecurity and calls on the government and security agencies to rise up to this challenge immediately.

“A 72-hour ultimatum is hereby given to the Anambra State Government to secure the immediate release of our colleague Dr. Mbanugo Tochukwu.

“If at the expiration of the above timeline and our member’s release is not secured, all the doctors in Anambra State under the aegis of NMA Anambra will down tools until our member is released.

“An emergency meeting will be convened within the next 72 hours to review the progress made so far,” the statement said.

The association commended the State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, through the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, for the good work he is doing, demanding for more visible and effective measures to tackle the spate of insecurity in the State.

It also appreciated its members, who, it said, have continued to provide quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare services to Anambra people, despite the prevailing situation and other negative factors.

Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command has ordered the launch of an intensive investigation into the report on the abduction of the medical doctor.

A statement by the Police spokesperson in Anambra, Tochukwu Ikenga on Sunday, said upon receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, immediately directed the tactical teams of the Command to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and apprehension of the perpetrators.

“The Command assures members of the public that every effort is being made to ensure the swift resolution of the Case. The CP further calls on residents, especially within Nnewi and its environs, to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of the Police by providing credible information that could assist in the investigation.

“Anyone with useful information is encouraged to contact the nearest Police Station or reach the Command Control Room via 07039194332 or the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) through 08039334002 for prompt response.

“The Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all residents and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those behind such criminal acts are brought to justice,” Ikenga said.