A medical doctor, Edwin Emegakor, who was abducted in Anambra State, has regained his freedom. Emegakor, the medical director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital in Nkpor, was taken by unidentified gunmen on May 7, 2026, after attending to patients. The assailants were reportedly dressed in security uniforms.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State Branch, Dr Princeton Okam, confirmed the release to journalists in Awka on Sunday, May 10. According to reports, security operatives at the hospital, medical personnel, and other workers were held at gunpoint, and their phones were confiscated during the abduction.
In response to the incident, members of the NMA Anambra chapter had threatened an indefinite strike starting Monday if their colleague was not released within 48 hours. This demand was made in a communique after an emergency general meeting on Saturday.
However, Dr Okam, who was scheduled to address journalists on Sunday regarding the planned strike, expressed gratitude for the doctor's release. He did not disclose whether any ransom was paid but stated that Emegakor was freed with the assistance of police operatives. The rescued doctor is reported to be healthy, in good spirits, and already reunited with his family.
Okam noted that the release had overtaken the planned strike action, and an emergency general meeting would be held to decide on calling off the strike. He said, “Emegakor was released with the help of security operatives. We appreciate those who played roles in his rescue, while we also call on the government of Anambra to ensure protection of life and property in the state.”
