MAKURDI, Nigeria — Medical doctors across Benue State have announced a three-day warning strike to protest the kidnapping of Dr. Asema Msuega, a dedicated medical professional who was abducted on 23rd July 2023.
Dr. Msuega’s kidnapping occurred as he was en route to oversee a state-sanctioned malaria initiative at a Primary Health Centre in the Ukum Local Government Area.
The decision for the strike was taken during the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Benue State branch’s Executive Council meeting on Friday, August 18, 2023.
The action will commence on Tuesday, 22nd August, at 12:01 am and will conclude on Friday, 25th August, at 8:00 am.
“The strike will encompass all medical doctors and extend to all health and educational facilities across the State,” read a part of the official statement, jointly signed by Dr. Anenga, Chairman of the NMA, and its Secretary, Dr. Godwin Ameh. Notably, private health institutions have been exempted “out of compassionate consideration for the general public,” but medical professionals working in the Ukum Local Government are directed to vacate their posts until further notice.
In a significant escalation of their protest, doctors have also announced a large-scale demonstration scheduled for Thursday, 24th August.
“The protest will begin at 9 am at the government house roundabout and end at the government house,” the statement detailed.
“This and the aforementioned measures will be activated unfailingly unless Dr. Asema is released before the strike’s start.”
The medical community has issued an urgent appeal, directing their pleas to key state and regional stakeholders including the Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Dr. Hyacinth Alia; the Tor Tiv, Orchiviligli Prof James Ayatse; and various legislative representatives.
“The safety of our medical professionals is paramount. It’s high time the leaders took concrete action,” said a doctor present at the meeting.
The community hopes that their collective stand against the rising wave of kidnappings will resonate with the state’s leadership, ensuring not only the safe return of Dr. Asema but also enhanced security measures for all medical workers in the region.
