After 20 days in captivity, Police confirm release of abducted medical doctor in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has confirmed the release of an abducted medical doctor in the state, Dr. John Robbin Esu. The doctor spent 20 days in the kidnappers den before his release.
Confirming the development to TheMail Newspaper, the Police Public Relations Officer in the State, ASP Timfon John said Dr. Esu was released last week Monday. She said the doctor was released unhurt.
She said the Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara is committed to ensuring a safe for all Akwa Ibomites, residents and visitors.
Dr. Esu was kidnapped on 30th April, 2024 in Oron LGA. On the 15th day of the doctor’s kidnap, an emergency general meeting of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) was convened where it was resolved that all doctors, both in government and private hospitals/clinics should withdraw their services for 3 days in solidarity with their colleague in captivity. On 18th of May, following the non-release of their colleague, the NMA under the leadership of Prof. Emem Abraham declared an indefinite strike.
But the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) of the University of Uyo and National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP) Akwa Ibom State countered the NMA, saying they won’t comply with the directive. A release signed by Dr Idara Usen, Chairman, NAGGMDP-AKS, and Dr. Aniekpeno Eyo, President ARD UUTH directed all their members to report to duty while the associations engage with government to handle the challenge.
“During the declaration of the initial 3 days warning strike, no vote was cast to determine if members wanted a strike or not. The NMA constitution clearly states that the Congress is the highest decision making body of the NMA, and on any issue where there is a motion and counter motion, the house must be divided and a vote cast. Despite strong protestations from the mover of a counter motion and its seconder alongside other members, The NMA Chairman dictatorially, in her characteristic high-handedness, ignored the call for a vote on whether doctors should proceed on a strike or not.
“The NMA declared a strike on Wednesday (15th May, 2024) and contrary to extant Labour laws, as at Friday morning did not send a strike notice formally communicating that decision to our employers. Several judgments of the National Industrial Courts is clear as to the right procedure for withdrawal of services. We find it appalling that a leadership that should know, will act in a way that puts the career of our members at risk.
“Just yesterday the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)-AKS declared a TOTAL AND INDEFINITE STRIKE ACTION without proper consultations and without any prior 21 days notice to the Government, public and our employers. For the benefit of the public, a total strike means no emergency services, no labour ward services or childbirth, etc. Of course this action takes shelter in the wrong side of the law and it is sad that a leadership you think should have the privilege of those who know the law to advise it will continue to drag a body of highly respected professionals to act in a way that will subject us to ridicule in the court of public opinion.
“The more ridiculous and shameful part is that Madam Chairman called a meeting to take a decision to cripple health services in the entire state and scheduled it for 4:00pm on Saturday, 18th May, 2024 and then sent words across that she preferred to attend a BURIAL CEREMONY over a congress she summoned as Chairman. How responsible or irresponsible is that?”, reads parts of the statement issued by NAGGMDP-AKS and ARD UUTH.