The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State chapter, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the state government and security agencies to secure the release of its abducted member, Dr Edwin Emegakor, warning that doctors across the state may withdraw services indefinitely if he is not freed within the timeframe.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued after an emergency general meeting held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in reaction to the abduction of the medical practitioner.
Dr Emegakor, the Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital, Nkpor, in Idemili North Local Government Area, was abducted in the evening of Thursday, May 7, 2026, shortly after attending to patients. He was reportedly taken away by unidentified armed men dressed in security uniforms.
In the communiqué signed by the state Chairman, Dr Princeston Okam, and Secretary, Dr Obiaeli Ifeanyi, the association strongly condemned the incident, describing it as part of a disturbing rise in insecurity targeting healthcare workers in the state.
The NMA said that as of Saturday morning, there had been no contact from the abductors to the victim’s family, colleagues, or professional associates, despite ongoing efforts to locate him.
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It added that security agencies had already been formally notified and were actively working toward securing his release.
The association, however, warned that failure to secure Dr Emegakor’s freedom within 48 hours would trigger an indefinite withdrawal of medical services by doctors in Anambra State.
“A 48-hour ultimatum is hereby given to the Anambra State Government to secure the immediate release of our colleague, Dr Edwin Emegakor,” the communiqué stated.
It added that an emergency meeting would be reconvened at the expiration of the ultimatum to review developments and determine further action.
While acknowledging efforts by Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Ben Obidike, the association urged authorities to intensify measures to curb insecurity, particularly attacks on health professionals.
The NMA also called on its members to remain committed to providing healthcare services despite prevailing security challenges, expressing hope for the safe and swift release of the abducted doctor.