The Nigerian Medical Association, Benue State chapter, on Wednesday, called on government at all levels, political leaders and traditional rulers to help in the release of one of their members abducted three weeks ago.
A medical doctor, Dr Asema Msuega, was abducted in the Ukum Local Government Area of the state three weeks ago while he was embarking on a malaria programme supervision at a primary health centre.
The association, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Mshakuma Anenga, stated that the abducted doctor was the only medical doctor at the General Hospital, Sankera, adding that he had been in captivity for 25 days.
The NMA threatened to down tools if the kidnapped medical doctor was not released.
“Dr Asema has devoted himself to the service of the people for several years. His kidnap made it the second abduction of a medical doctor in the past three months within our state.
“This pattern cannot be ignored, as it now seems like doctors, who have given their lives to the service of humanity, are being targeted for kidnap in the state.
“The union calls on the state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, and top politicians, Senator Emmanuel Udende representing Benue North East Senatorial District and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Paul Biam, to intervene and ensure the immediate release of the abducted medical doctor,” the statement said.
“We equally seek the intervention of the revered Paramount Ruler of the Tiv nation, Orchiviligh HRM Prof James Ayatse, to take decisive and immediate action that will lead to the release of our colleague and his subordinate.