Nigeria Content Online

The
fresh air breathed by residents of Edo State following a month-long
lull in the activities of kidnappers came to a sudden end yesterday
morning as a former Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of
Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Eugene Okpere was abducted in Benin
City.

This is certainly
not good news as it could trigger another health crisis as medical
workers have decided to down tools, compounding the near collapse of
healthcare system in Edo State.

Mr. Ukpere, a
professor of obstetrics and gynecology, was allegedly kidnapped on his
way to the early morning Sunday service at about 6.30 am.

According to family
sources, the former CMD was driving out of his house in BDPA Estate,
opposite UNIBEN, Ugbowo, Benin City when he was accosted by four armed
men who dragged him out of his car and took him away.

As at the time of
filing this report yesterday, it was gathered that his abductors have
opened contact with the family but were yet to name their ransom.

Thanks to Enahoro

The state chapter
of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) immediately embarked on an
indefinite strike to press for the unconditional release of their
colleague. State Chairman of the NMA, Philip Ugbodaga told newsmen
yesterday that doctors in all public hospitals would not admit new
patients but would only attend to those already on admission and those
with emergency cases.

“We are calling an
emergency meeting tomorrow (Monday) to discuss the way forward.
Meanwhile I have instructed doctors in the state to embark on an
indefinite strike, but during the strike, we will attend to those that
have already been admitted and emergency cases, we will no not go on
ward round. We are calling on emergency meeting of the exco and we are
demanding unconditional release of Professor Okpere,” he said.

Mr. Ugbodaga told
NEXT that doctors will attend to patients already in admission as a
sign of respect to elder statesman, Anthony Enahoro who is currently
undergoing medical care in the UBTH.

Edo State police
image maker, Peter Ogboi, could not be reached as his mobile line was
switched off. A senior police officer who pleaded anonymonity however
told NEXT yesterday that the state command was yet to be informed about
the abduction of Mr. Okpere.

The incumbent CMD of the hospital, Michael Ibadin was few months ago kidnapped in a similar manner in the same area.