Doctors in Cross Rivers state have unanimously declared an indefinite and comprehensive strike in response to the distressing abduction of Dr. Ekanem Ephraim. Dr. Ephraim, a highly dedicated and esteemed medical practitioner at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), was forcibly taken from her residence in Calabar on Thursday evening by a group of armed men who deceitfully posed as patients seeking medical assistance.
The announcement of the strike was made by Dr. Felix Archibong, the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), following an Emergency General Meeting (EGM) convened in Calabar on Sunday. At the meeting, the doctors expressed their deep concern and frustration over the prolonged captivity of Dr. Ephraim, despite their relentless efforts to secure her release.
In light of these distressing circumstances, the doctors have collectively resolved to take decisive action. Their course of action includes an immediate and complete withdrawal of medical services, which will be carried out indefinitely as an expression of unwavering solidarity with their fellow physician who remains in the custody of her abductors.
This bold step taken by the doctors means that all hospitals within the state of Cross Rivers, regardless of whether they are federal, state-owned, private, or mission-run institutions, will be affected by the strike. The magnitude of this decision demonstrates the doctors’ strong resolve and their unwavering commitment to stand up against the rising incidence of violence targeting medical professionals.
In addition to their withdrawal of medical services, the doctors are earnestly appealing to the state government to take immediate action. They implore the authorities to utilize all available resources and instruments at their disposal to secure the safe and prompt release of Dr. Ephraim from the clutches of her abductors. The doctors firmly believe that the responsibility for ensuring the well-being and safety of medical practitioners falls squarely on the shoulders of the government, which holds the power and authority to uphold law and order.
It is important to acknowledge that the doctors are well aware of the potential hardships and adverse effects their strike may have on the general public. However, they firmly believe that their actions are necessitated by the urgency of the situation and the need to bring attention to the alarming security concerns faced by medical professionals in the state. The doctors sincerely hope that their decision will serve as a wake-up call to the relevant security agencies, urging them to prioritize the safety of healthcare workers and take all necessary measures to secure their release.
In this critical time, the doctors express their gratitude to the citizens for their understanding and support, as they embark on this challenging journey to protect the rights and safety of healthcare professionals. They reiterate their unwavering commitment to providing quality healthcare to the people of Cross Rivers state, and eagerly anticipate the day when they can resume their essential services with renewed vigor and without fear of violence or abduction.
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