Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River
State has signed the State’s anti-kidnapping bill into law. The law prescribes
death penalty for kidnappers.
This was contained in a
communique issued this morning (Tuesday) by the Nigeria Medical Association
(NMA) signed by the Public Relations Officer, Cross River State branch, Dr
Ernest Ochang after meeting in Calabar.
“The Governor on his part
informed the NMA that the anti kidnapping bill had been signed into law and he
was not going to rest until the kidnappers are caught and brought to book.
“This law prescribes the death
penalty for kidnappers. His Excellency mandated the State Security Adviser to
work closely with the NMA in information gathering and sharing, and expressed
concern at the lack of inter-agency synergy, with a promise to do all in his
power to address the issue.
“He also informed the NMA of
other specific measures including the provision of a patrol boat for the
waterway identified as the escape route for kidnappers and enforcement of
serious consequences for local chiefs aiding and abating this criminal
element”, the NMA stated.
NMA however, expressed its
dissatisfaction with the poor security situation in the state, leading to the
frequent kidnappings which she felt were targeted at doctors and their family
members.
“It is worthy of note that at
least 6 doctors or their family members had been kidnapped within the last year
alone. Following the kidnap of Dr Usang Ekanem, we had warned of an impending
sit-at-home should he not be released unconditionally.
“He was quickly released after a
ransom and another doctor grabbed on same day. We are also aware of a litany of
other kidnappings across the state including a Red cross volunteer/primary
school teacher who is still in captivity and the NMA demands his unconditional
release”, they said.
“NMA appreciates the introduction
of homeland security but expresses concern at the poor information sharing and
synergy between security agencies.
“We feel this is the real
challenge and possible cause of the absurdity which permits victims to be
transported at ease within the state particularly between the hours of 12 and
4am.
“We are glad to inform you that
beyond the security challenges, we had time to discuss other issues and
proffered ways forward on health issues in the State particularly the dearth of
doctors in the State service, possible collaboration opportunities between the
State and health care resources in the Teaching Hospital and other tertiary
health facilities, implementation challenges on Ayade-care and multiple
taxation of private health facilities.
“We wish to thank the general
public particularly the press for standing with us in this struggle to
emancipate our State from hoodlums and mean-minded criminals.
“We swore to save lives but our
lives were continually being threatened. We had to look over our shoulders. The
terror and fear was beginning to affect our work.
“We also wish to use this
opportunity to inform the general public of the re-emergence of lassa in Ebonyi
State which has claimed the lives of 2 doctors and a nurse while 1 doctor is in
intensive care. We need to be proactive and watchful as Ebonyi state is close
by”, NMA warned.
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