Medical doctors in Kogi State are currently staging protests following the abduction of one of their colleagues, Dr. Austin Uwumagbe. Dr. Uwumagbe, the Director of Victory Hospital-Annex in Ogaminana, Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State, was kidnapped by suspected gunmen last week.

A visit by news reporters to various medical facilities in the state, including Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja, and several hospitals in the state capital, revealed that doctors were absent from their duties, leaving patients without medical attention.

Dr. Olusola Baoku, the Kogi State Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), expressed deep concern over the ongoing protest by medical practitioners.

He noted that doctors have become targets of criminal elements in the country, with over 48 doctors kidnapped in the last two years across Nigeria.

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Dr. Baoku lamented the misconception that doctors are wealthy and therefore suitable targets for kidnapping. He clarified that many doctors are struggling financially, living from hand to mouth, and burdened by debts incurred to build their homes.

Doctors often end up paying the medical bills of patients who cannot afford treatment from their meager salaries.

The NMA Chairman disclosed that the kidnappers have contacted the family and are demanding a substantial ransom for Dr. Uwumagbe’s release.

As a result, the NMA is appealing for help to secure the immediate release of their abducted colleague.

Dr. Baoku urged the Kogi State government and security agencies to take swift action to ensure Dr. Uwumagbe’s safe return.

He emphasized that doctors in Kogi State are in dire financial straits, contrary to the belief that they are wealthy individuals.