The Akwa Ibom State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association, on Thursday, announced the withdrawal of its services in all government and private hospitals across the state.

The State NMA Chairman, Prof. Emem Abraham, made the declaration in a statement on Thursday.

Abraham said the decision was reached at an emergency general meeting of the association held on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, in solidarity with Dr John Esu, who was abducted on April 30, 2024, and was still languishing in the kidnapers’ den 15 days after.

He said the withdrawal of services would be for an initial 72 hours after it would be reviewed.

“The Nigerian Medical Association, Akwa Ibom State, has resorted to withdrawing services from all government and private hospitals in Akwa Ibom State, in sympathy with our member who has been in captivity for 15 days.

“This withdrawal of services takes immediate effect and shall be reviewed after 72 hours.

“The entire members of our association have been psychologically traumatised by this unfortunate situation and are not in a good frame of mind to continue serving the public while Dr John Robbin Esu remains in the kidnappers’ den.

“We hereby appeal to our dear Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, to ensure the release of our member unhurt within the shortest period and improve the security of lives and properties in the state,” the statement read. (The PUNCH)