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.