Benue doctors threaten to down tools over colleague’s abduction

The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in Benue State has demanded the immediate release of their kidnapped colleague, Dr Asema Msuega.

 Asema, who was kidnapped while on duty in Zaki Biam in Ukum LGA of the state has already spent over 25 days in the hands of his abductors.

 In a statement demanding his unconditional release by the NMAs state chairman, Dr Ushakuma Anenga; Secretary, Dr Ameh Godwin; and the Public Relations Officer (PRO), Dr Mark Ogbodo, the association threatened to withdraw their services if the authorities concerned fail to effect the release of their colleague.

 They also urged the government to reinforce security measures around health facilities across the state, especially in areas that have become breeding grounds for heinous crimes, adding that the safety of health workers is not negotiable.

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“Our beloved colleague, Dr Asema Msuega, a dedicated and selfless medical doctor, was kidnapped on the 23rd of July, 2023 in the line of duty. He was embarking on malaria programme supervision at a primary health centre in Ukum LGA of Benue State when he was abducted. 

 “Dr Asema was the only doctor at General Hospital, Sankera, where he devoted himself to the service of the people for several years. His kidnap makes it the second abduction of a medical doctor in the past three months within our state. This pattern cannot be ignored, as it now seems like doctors, who have given their lives to the service of humanity, are being targeted for kidnap in the state.

 “We hereby call on His Excellency, Rev. Fr Dr. Hyacinth Alia, the governor of Benue State, and top politicians, especially those who hail from Ukum LGA, including the distinguished Senator Emmanuel Udende representing Benue North East Senatorial Zone, and Chief of staff to the Governor, Hon. Paul Biam, to swiftly intervene and ensure the immediate release of Dr Asema Msuega from the hands of his abductors,’’ they said.