Dr Edwin Emegakor, Medical Director of Crown Multi-Specialist Hospital in Nkpor, Anambra State, has been released after being abducted by armed men on May 7. The incident occurred in the evening while he was at the hospital attending to patients. Unidentified gunmen, allegedly dressed in security uniforms, stormed the facility, overpowered security personnel, and confiscated phones before taking Emegakor away.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State Branch, Dr Princeton Okam, confirmed the release on Sunday in Awka. He stated that Emegakor was in good health and had been reunited with his family. Okam credited police operatives for assisting in the doctor's release but did not disclose whether a ransom was paid.
Prior to the announcement, the Anambra chapter of the NMA had issued a communiqué following an Emergency General Meeting on Saturday, threatening an indefinite strike beginning Monday if Emegakor was not freed within 48 hours. With the doctor's release, the planned strike has been overtaken, and the association will hold another emergency meeting to decide on next steps.
Dr Okam expressed gratitude for the successful rescue and called on the Anambra State government to ensure better protection of lives and property across the state. He emphasized the need for improved security, particularly for healthcare workers and medical facilities.
Dr Princeton Okam called off a doctors' strike after Emegakor's release but offered no explanation for how security operatives in uniforms could abduct a top doctor from a hospital under watch. The incident exposes how easily armed men can impersonate security agents and breach medical facilities in Anambra. Health workers remain vulnerable despite public assurances of safety. The state government's promise of protection now faces a direct test.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
