Anambra NMA Threatens Service Withdrawal Over Police Assault

The Anambra State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the state police command, threatening to withdraw the services of its members from all hospitals in the state if a police officer, Corporal Okona Stephen, is not prosecuted for allegedly harassing, kidnapping, and torturing one of its members, Dr. Offodile Ekwuogwu.

According to the NMA, Ekwuogwu, a consultant neurosurgeon, treated Okona after he sustained a head injury in a road accident in January 2024.

However, instead of paying for the medical services rendered, Okona allegedly intimidated Ekwuogwu.

In February 2024, Okona, accompanied by some of his colleagues, allegedly stormed Ekwuogwu’s consulting room and took him to the Nnewi Police Area Command.

The Area Commander, upon learning about the matter, cautioned Okona and instructed him to pay the outstanding bill.

Okona refused to comply and, on March 16, 2024, allegedly trailed Ekwuogwu with some of his colleagues, intercepted him on his way home, and took him to the State CID, Awka.

The NMA has demanded the immediate arrest, investigation, and prosecution of Okona and his collaborators, as their actions have been deemed a threat to the safety of its members.

The association also demanded an undertaking of full responsibility for Ekwuogwu’s safety signed by Okona, as they will hold the police responsible for any harm to him or his family.

The police public relations officer, SP Ikenga Toochukwu, has denied the allegations of abduction, stating that the police is a legal institution empowered to investigate and maintain law and order.

He insisted that Ekwuogwu was arrested and had been questioned on the allegations against him.

As tensions rise, the NMA’s ultimatum highlights the importance of addressing the issue swiftly to prevent a potential service withdrawal, which could severely impact healthcare services in the state