A former Edo State Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dr. Philip Ugbodaga, and two other doctors, whose identities have not been ascertained, have been reportedly kidnapped by gunmen.
It was learnt that the ex-NMA chief, who hails from Enwan in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state, was abducted along with his colleagues in Imo State on Friday.
They were said to be on a humanitarian mission to render free medical services to some communities courtesy of a friend when they were kidnapped.
Sources said that shortly after the doctors arrived at their base in Imo, they were intercepted by the kidnappers at Isu Local Government Area of Imo, near Umuaka, and taken away in a vehicle at gunpoint to an unknown destination.
Although the family members of Dr. Ugbodaga have not commented on the matter, it was gathered that the kidnappers had yet to make any contact or demand for a ransom.
When contacted, the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Andrew Ewerem, told Southern City News that the command had yet to get details of the incident. It was, however, learnt that an investigation had commenced into the kidnap.
Meanwhile, a group, Edo Focus, has condemned the abduction of the medical practitioner, who is also its member, and urged the Nigeria Police to ensure his safe release.
The convener of the group, Mr. Aiyamenkhue Edokpolor, said, “The news of Dr. Phillip Ugbodaga’s kidnap came to us as a rude shock because apart from his easy-going lifestyle, he is an indefatigable advocate for the emancipation of the poor.
“Dr. Ugbodaga is also an advocate of the preservation of the rights of the oppressed Nigerians and health care provider for the vulnerable citizens of Edo and Nigeria.
“For us, there is certainly no justification for such a person in Ugbodaga’s standing to be kidnapped, assuming the perpetrators consider moral grounds as a precursor for their action.”
Also reacting, the immediate past president of the NMA, Dr. Osahon Enabulele, said, “It is really sad that our brother, Dr. Philip Ugbodaga, was kidnapped by some faceless individuals. While I urge all to fervently pray for his speedy release, I commend all ongoing efforts being made to secure his safe release.
By: Alexander Okere
Punch News
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