Abducted Anambra medical doctor regains freedom

The Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital, Nkpor, Anambra State, Dr Edwin Emegakor, who was abducted from his hospital on May 7, has regained freedom from his captors.

His release was confirmed to journalists by the Chairman of Nigeria Medical Association, Anambra State Branch, Dr Princeton Okam, in Awka, on Sunday.

Emegakor was reportedly abducted on the evening of May 7 after attending to patients by unidentified gunmen alleged to be in security uniforms.

It was gathered that the security operatives at the hospital, medical personnel and other workers within the facility were surrendered at gunpoint and their phones confiscated during the abduction.

In reaction to the development, members of the Anambra State chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association had threatened to embark on indefinite strike action, commencing on Monday, if their member was not released within 48 hours

The association made the demand in a communiqué issued after its Emergency General Meeting held on Saturday.

However, the Chairman of NMA, Anambra Branch, Dr Princeton Okam, who was to address journalists on Sunday, on the strike action planned to commence on Monday, expressed gratitude to God for the release of the medical doctor.

Okam, who did not disclose if any ransom was paid or not, said Emegakor was released with the help of Police operatives, adding that the rescued colleague was healthy, in good spirits and already reunited with his family.

He said, “The release of the doctor had overtaken the strike action scheduled to commence on Monday and that there would be an emergency general meeting to make decisions on the call-off.

“Emegakor was released with the help of security operatives. We appreciate those who played roles in his rescue, while we also call on the government of Anambra to ensure protection of life and property in the state.”