The Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has announced the withdrawal of its services across hospitals in the state, effective January 10, 2026, in protest against the abduction of two of its members.
The doctors—Dr. Abu Ibrahim Babatunde, of Edo State University Teaching Hospital, Auchi, and Dr. Stephen Osamaye, of Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua—were kidnapped on January 1 and 2 respectively. Dr. Abu was abducted in Auchi, while Dr. Osamaye was seized along Illeh Road, Ekpoma.
In a statement, Edo NMA Chairman Dr. Eustace Oseghale said the withdrawal of services was a direct consequence of the abductions and reflected the heightened vulnerability of medical practitioners in the state.
“The NMA is calling for immediate intervention to secure the release of the abducted doctors and implement measures to prevent future incidents. This incident raises concerns about healthcare professionals’ safety in Edo State, threatening their lives and undermining healthcare delivery,” Oseghale said.
The association outlined several demands, including:
- Enhanced security protocols for residents and medical professionals
- Regular engagement between NMA Edo and the state government on security concerns
- Concrete measures to ensure a safe working environment for healthcare providers
Oseghale stressed that services would remain suspended until the demands were met.
“We urge a swift resolution and the safe return of our colleagues. Security operatives should take this seriously, as they will be held responsible for the consequences of our action,” he added.
The strike action could disrupt healthcare delivery across Edo State, raising concerns about access to medical services amid ongoing insecurity.
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