Doctor’s Rescue Prompts NMA To Suspend Planned Strike In Anambra

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

THE Anambra State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has suspended its planned industrial action following the safe rescue of its kidnapped member, Dr Emegakor Edwin.

In a communiqué issued after an emergency general meeting in Awka on Tuesday, the association said the suspension was in recognition of the swift intervention by security agencies, which led to the doctor’s release.

Dr Edwin, Medical Director of Crown Hospital in Nkpor, was abducted on Thursday, 7 May 2026, while conducting ward rounds inside his hospital by gunmen dressed in military and police uniforms.

The NMA subsequently issued a 48-hour ultimatum for his release.

The association commended the Anambra State Government and operatives of the Rapid Response and Anti-Kidnap Squad from the Awkuzu unit of the Nigeria Police for their prompt and courageous action.

The NMA also extended its condolences to the family of a police officer who lost his life during the rescue operation, and offered to cover the medical bills of two other officers who sustained injuries in the fierce exchange of gunfire with the kidnappers.

Dr Edwin was rescued unharmed on Sunday morning, 11 May, in Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area, alongside other victims, according to the communiqué signed by the state chairman, Dr Princeton Okam, and the secretary, Dr Obiaeli Ifeanyi.

The association hailed the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, and the health commissioner-designate, Dr Afam Obidike, for their intervention.

While declaring its support for the growing call to establish state police and other measures aimed at protecting lives and property in the state, the NMA appealed to the state government to tighten the security architecture across Anambra.