The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Abia State Branch, has threatened to embark on a total and indefinite strike if abducted orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Bonaventure Aguocha, is not released within 24 hours.

The decision was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of an Emergency General Meeting held in Umuahia on Monday. The communiqué was jointly signed by the association’s Chairman, Ezenwa Ezuruike, and Secretary, Clement Ifenkoronye.

According to the association, the ultimatum was directed at security agencies as well as the governments of Abia and Imo states, demanding the immediate release of Dr. Aguocha, who was abducted on May 24 while travelling from Imo State to Umuahia.

The NMA warned that failure to secure his freedom before 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 2, would result in a total and indefinite withdrawal of medical services across the state.

The association described Dr. Aguocha as a renowned orthopaedic surgeon, teacher, mentor, and former chairman of the Abia NMA, noting that he has devoted years of selfless service to healthcare delivery in both Abia and Imo states.

Members expressed concern over what they described as a growing pattern of attacks on medical practitioners, citing the unresolved abduction of former Chief Medical Director of Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Uwadinachi Iweha, in 2020.

The communiqué stated that doctors continue to face harassment, intimidation, assaults, and kidnappings despite working under difficult conditions and providing essential healthcare services to the public.

The association called on the Department of State Services, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Commissioners of Police in both Abia and Imo states to intensify efforts toward securing the surgeon’s release.

It also appealed to the governors of the two states to deploy all available resources and influence to ensure his safe return.

The NMA further urged traditional rulers, community leaders, security agencies, and concerned Nigerians to support efforts aimed at rescuing the doctor.

According to the association, failure to act swiftly could further undermine healthcare workers’ confidence in the government’s ability to guarantee their safety and may negatively impact healthcare service delivery across the region.