The Nigerian Medical Association, Abia State branch, has suspended its planned indefinite strike following the release of orthopaedic surgeon Dr Uche Bonaventure Aguocha. Dr Aguocha was abducted on Sunday, May 26, 2026, and regained freedom on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, after nine days in captivity. The NMA made the announcement in a statement jointly signed by its State Chairman, Dr Ezenwa Ezuruike, and Secretary, Dr Clement Ifenkoronye, dated June 2, 2026.
The union had previously threatened to commence a total and indefinite strike on June 2 over the abduction. With Dr Aguocha's release, the strike action has been called off. The NMA expressed gratitude to the Abia State Government led by Governor Alex Otti, the Imo State Government under Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies for their roles in securing the surgeon's freedom.
The association also thanked the public, media, and healthcare workers for their prayers and solidarity. The statement noted that the kidnapping of healthcare workers is unacceptable and should not be normalised. It referenced the unresolved abduction of Prof. Iweha since 2020 as an example of ongoing threats to medical personnel. The NMA Abia State called on federal and state governments to strengthen security for healthcare workers and facilities.
It demanded a thorough investigation to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for Dr Aguocha's abduction to deter future attacks. The union reaffirmed its commitment to serving Abia State's population and pledged continued engagement with government and security agencies to ensure a safe working environment for doctors. The NMA wished Dr Aguocha a swift recovery from the physical and psychological trauma of his ordeal.
Dr Aguocha was freed the same day the strike was to begin, raising questions about what precisely triggered his release after nine days. The NMA's public pressure coincided with the timing of his freedom, yet the exact role of the strike threat in securing it remains unexplained. Healthcare workers in Abia, including Dr Aguocha, continue to operate in environments where kidnappings persist without resolution. The unresolved case of Prof. Iweha since 2020 shows that promises of security have not translated into protection for doctors.
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