The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Abia State chapter, has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to security agencies and the governments of Abia and Imo States to secure the release of kidnapped orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Bonaventure Aguocha.

The warning was contained in a communiqué issued after an emergency general meeting held in Umuahia and signed by the association’s chairman, Dr Ezenwa Ezuruike, and secretary, Dr Clement Ifenkoronye.

The association said failure to secure the doctor’s release within the deadline would result in a total and indefinite strike action beginning 8 a.m. on Tuesday, June 2.

Dr Aguocha was reportedly abducted on May 24 while travelling from Imo State to Umuahia.

The NMA described him as a respected former chairman of the association in Abia State, as well as a mentor and teacher who has contributed significantly to healthcare delivery in the region.

It condemned what it described as a growing pattern of attacks on medical professionals, referencing previous unresolved cases involving healthcare workers.

The association warned that continued targeting of doctors through abductions and violence could severely undermine healthcare delivery in the state.

It called on security agencies, including the DSS and police authorities in Abia and Imo, to intensify efforts to secure the surgeon’s immediate release.

The NMA also urged both state governments, traditional rulers, and community leaders to intervene urgently to resolve the situation.

The association cautioned that failure to act within the given timeframe could weaken confidence in government protection of healthcare workers and disrupt medical services across the two states.