Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) said on Sunday that it has suspended the notice of total and indefinite withdrawal of medical services across the state following the release of its kidnapped member Dr Ogbonna Uchenna-Aju by unknown gunmen.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Uchenna-Aju, a medical practitioner was kidnapped on May 3 in Cross River by unknown gunmen while on transit from Ogoja Local Government Area to his house in Obudu Local Government Area of the state.

The announcement of his release contained in a communiqué signed by the Chairman of Nigerian Medical Association, South South zone, Dr Agam Ayuk, and the Secretary Dr Ezoke Epoke after its general emergency meeting held on Sunday in Calabar said that Uchenna-Aju was released safely on May 9 through the efforts of the state government, security agencies and the media.

“Arising from the meeting and taking into serious consideration the healthcare needs of Cross Riverians, the NMA in Cross River has suspended the notice of total and indefinite withdrawal of medical services across the state.

“The association have also directed all its members across the state to resume work immediately.

“The association will keep to her January 8th 2018 resolution in the event of the kidnapped of a doctor or dependents which says that `the NMA will henceforth withdraw all medical services without any notice anytime a doctor or dependent are taken captive in future.”

The association implores the state government and security agencies to do more to safeguard lives and property in the state. (NAN)