The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Edo State has declared an indefinite withdrawal of medical services across the state, starting from Saturday, January 10, 2026. This drastic action is a direct response to the abduction of two medical doctors in the state on January 1 and 2, 2026.
An Ultimatum for Safety and Release
In a strongly-worded statement issued in Benin City on Friday, the Chairman of the NMA Edo State branch, Dr. Eustace Oseghale, outlined the association's position. He stated that the withdrawal is a consequence of the kidnappings and highlights the profound sense of insecurity now felt by medical practitioners working in Edo.
Dr. Oseghale, speaking on behalf of the association, made two core demands: the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted doctors and the urgent implementation of concrete security measures to protect healthcare professionals in the future.
A Healthcare System Under Threat
The NMA's statement emphasized that the safety of its members is non-negotiable. "This incident raises grave concerns about the safety of healthcare professionals in Edo State," the statement read. It further warned that such attacks not only threaten lives but also severely undermine the entire healthcare delivery system for the state's residents.
The association is calling for enhanced security protocols and regular dialogue between the NMA Edo leadership and the Edo State Government to address these critical security challenges.
No Resolution, No Services
Dr. Oseghale was unequivocal about the association's resolve. "We will continue to withhold our services until our demands are met and our colleagues are safe," he declared. He stressed that a secure working environment is a fundamental requirement for healthcare providers to function effectively.
The NMA Chairman also issued a direct warning to security agencies, urging a swift resolution. "Security operatives should take this matter with the utmost seriousness, as they will be held responsible for the consequences of our action," Oseghale stated.
In a separate development, the 1st Vice-President of the national NMA, Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, expressed strong optimism about the future of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD). During a recent visit, he declared that the institution is on a clear path to rank among the world's top ten universities within the lifetime of its founder, Aare Afe Babalola.
Dr. Olowojebutu described ABUAD as a living testament to vision and disciplined execution. His visit, which he framed as a reconnection with his Èkìtì heritage, included a tour of the advanced Afe Babalola Multi-System Hospital (AMSH). He was impressed by facilities featuring cutting-edge technology like 64-slice and 128-slice CT Scanners, modern MRI machines, and an intelligent pneumatic tube system for lab samples.
