Governor Ayade signs anti-kidnapping bill into law

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 during a speech issued this morning (Tuesday) by the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) signed by the general 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 wasn't aiming 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 authority to work closely with the NMA in operation and sharing, and expressed concern at the lack of inter-agency synergy, with a promise to do all in his power to deal with the problem.

“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 significant consequences for local chiefs aiding and decreasing 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 members of the family.

“It is merit note that at least 6 doctors or their members of the family had been kidnapped within the last year alone. Following the abduct of Dr Usang Ekanem, we had warned of an at hand sit-at-home should he not be discharged unconditionally.

“He was quickly released when a ransom and another doctor grabbed on same day. we are aware of a litany of different 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 however expresses concern at the poor info sharing and synergy between security agencies.

“We feel this is the important challenge and possible explanation for the absurdity which allows victims to be transported at ease among 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 debate different problems and proffered ways forward on health problems within 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 different tertiary health facilities, implementation challenges on Ayade-care and multiple taxation of private health facilities.

“We would like to thank the overall public particularly the press for standing with us during this struggle to emancipate our State from hoodlums and mean-minded criminals.

“We swore to save lives but our lives were continually being vulnerable. we had to look over our shoulders. the terror|the phobia} and fear was beginning to have an effect on our work.

“We conjointly would like to use this chance to tell the overall public of the re-emergence of Lhasa in Ebonyi State that has claimed the lives of two doctors and a nurse whereas one doctor is in medical aid. we want to be proactive and watchful as Ebonyi state is shut by”, NMA warned.