Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, has directed doctors in Abia State to resume services in hospitals across the state.
Doctors in the state had on Tuesday withdrawn their services following the abduction of their colleague, Professor Uwadinachi Iweha.
Professor Iweha was kidnapped on Sunday June 6, in front of his house at Umuokpara, Umuahia South Local Government Area.
The doctors cited security concerns as reason for their action, saying they can no longer operate under unsafe environment.
The directive to suspend the industrial action was contained in a press statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, Dr Chimezie Okwuonu; the Secretary, Dr. Robinson Ugwuanyi; and Publicity Secretary, Dr Erondu Nnamdi.
NMA said it decided to suspend the industrial action after a review of the situation but added that it would be reviewed after 72 hours.
The medical body directed doctors in the state to immediately resume duties both in public and private hospitals.
The statement made available to Ikengaonline read in part: “After x-raying the entire situation as presented by the Government and Security agencies, the SOC resolved as follows:
“That the ongoing industrial action embarked by NMA is hereby suspended .
“That work starts in all private and public health facilities in Abia State by 10:00 am on Friday, 17th day of June 2022.
“That the situation will be further reviewed in the next 72 hours during the Ordinary General Meeting of NMA Abia State which holds in General Hospital Aba on Sunday, 19th June 2022.
“That NMA Abia State may be forced to resume the suspended strike action if no further palpable progress is made in the next 72hours.”
