…NMA suspends strike, resumes work
From Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
The medical doctor, Dr. Asema Msuega, who was abducted over a month ago, has been released after 33 days in captivity.
The Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO), SP Catherine Anene, confirmed this report saying Msuega was released Friday night, August 25, 2023.
Meanwhile, a police source said the abducted doctor was released Friday night after his captors ran away following pressure of pursuit from officers and men of Operation Zenda led by CSP Justine Gberindyer and other security agencies.
It was said that the operatives gave them a hot chase and while they were closing in on them in their hideout around Ayati – Imade Adamu shitile border axis of Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, they ran and left him behind.
Also, the Nigerian Medical Association, (NMA), Benue State council, has confirmed the release of their colleague, Dr Msuega.
The state chairman of the association, Dr Ushakuma Anenga, in a statement made available to newsmen in Makurdi, said following the release, the association has, therefore, shelved the indefinite strike it embarked on in response to the abduction of their colleague.
Recalled that the NMA on Friday, August 25, 2023, had commenced an indefinite strike after an initial three days warning strike following the continuous stay of Dr Msuega in captivity.
Dr Asema Msuega, was kidnapped on the 23rd of July 2023 while on Malaria supervision in Ukum Local Government Area of the state by suspected gunmen and despite entreaties by families, friends, and the association to his abductors to release him, he was not released.
The NMA statement read in part, “We are pleased to inform you that Dr. Asema Msuega, our esteemed colleague who was abducted at Ukum local government area on Sunday 23rd July 2023, has been released from captivity.
“In light of this development, an Emergency General Meeting of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Benue State Chapter, was convened today Saturday 26th August 2023 by 10 a.m. After thorough deliberation and careful consideration, the indefinite strike action, which was initiated in response to the abduction of Dr. Asema Msuega, stands suspended by 11 a.m. today.
“Members are hereby instructed to resume their duties. However, Doctors working in Ukum Local Government are directed to leave their duty stations until further notice. We are currently assessing the situation and will communicate further instructions as soon as possible.”