July 15, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has demanded the unconditional release of one of its members, Professor Ekanem Philip Ephraim, who was abducted by unknown gunmen on Thursday, in Calabar, Cross River State capital.
Chairman of the NMA, Cross River chapter, Dr Felix Archibong, in an interview with newsmen in Calabar, on Friday, said the kidnapped doctor worked with the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).
Giving more insight into the abduction, Archibong revealed that the kidnappers disguised themselves as patients and as she was attending to them, they brought out weapons and whisked her away.
“We are sure that they are kidnappers because they have reached out to the family demanding ransom.
“Although the matter had been reported to the police, we want the good people of Cross River, especially the State Governor to help us by ensuring that our abducted member is rescued and returned to her loved ones unconditionally,” he said.
The State branch of the NMA has a standing policy of withdrawing its services whenever a medical doctor is kidnapped.
Meanwhile, DSP Irene Ugbo, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Cross River Command, confirmed the incident. She noted that men of the Force are on the trail of the kidnappers.
THEWILL Correspondent, Aniekan Bassey has over six years experience that spans across several fields in print journalism including development communication, sexual reproductive and health rights issues, crime, climate change, social justice, business and human interest stories.
