Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 6, Calabar, Jonathan Towuru, confirmed that the suspects involved in the abduction and tragic death of Prof. Ekanem Ephraim, the first female professor of medicine at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, are now imprisoned. The 60-year-old professor was kidnapped in 2023, and sadly, lost her life while in the hands of her abductors.

This announcement was made during a courtesy visit by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Cross River State chapter at the AIG’s office in Calabar. In the statement released by Zone 6 Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nelson Okpabi, AIG Towuru reassured the delegation that security efforts were being strengthened, particularly in light of the rise in abductions targeting medical professionals in the region.

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AIG Towuru shared that some of the suspects connected to Prof. Ephraim’s kidnapping are now behind bars, awaiting trial. “Efforts are ongoing to fully investigate the case,” Towuru stated, “and we are committed to providing adequate security for medical professionals as they continue their important work.”

During the visit, Dr. Ezoke Epoke, the newly appointed chairman of the NMA in the state, led the delegation, thanking the AIG for the recent improvements in safety in the region. He highlighted the NMA’s ongoing concerns about the security of medical doctors, especially in light of rising kidnappings targeting healthcare workers.

Dr. Epoke also offered the NMA’s support to the police, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring the well-being of officers. The association has extended an invitation to provide free mental health services for police personnel at the Calabar Police Hospital every Tuesday.