By Correspondent in Lokoja
With resurgence of Kidnapping in Kogi state,Pharmacists in the state have threatened to withdraw services, if abduction of their continues unchecked.
They,therefore, called on relevant security agencies to as a matter of urgency, map out strategies to curb the incessant attacks on their members and other drug stores across the state.
The state chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria(PSN), Dr Lawal Muhammed, made the call in a statement he issued on Thursday in Lokoja.
He expressed concern that, “Practitioners and businessmen in Pharmaceuticals have become soft targets for the kidnappers and armed robbers.
“Within the space of one week, we have recorded three cases of kidnapping in broad day light and two people have lost their lives during these very ugly incidents in Okene, Kabba and Ajaokuta.
“We have also had instances of armed robbery attacks on Pharmacists this year and the previous year within Lokoja,the state capital.
“We, therefore, appeal to relevant security agencies in Kogi state and other stakeholders to swing into action for the release of the victims, hale hearthy and map out strategies to prevent future occurrence.
“Most of the monies invested in Pharmaceuticals are loan from banks, we therefore urge the perpetrators and the general public not to see us as being rich. One of the implications of this heinous act is shortages in drug supply and withdrawal of services.
“We all need drugs, irrespective of our class, either to keep fit or to recover from an illness. It is an abomination to attack Health facilities/personnel,even during war, so all hands must be on deck to put an end to this menace.
“We call on our father, the Executive Governor of Kogi state, to come to our aid. You have always shown your capacity in the fight against insecurity, we have undiluted confidence in your ability to secure lives and property.
“Your excellency sir, you have done it before, you will do it again,” they said.
Our Correspondent recalls that Abdulazeez Obajimoh, who is the Managing Director of Azeco Pharmacy in Okene, headquarters of Okene Local Governnent Area of the state, was abducted four days ago by suspected kidnappers in Okene at about 3p.m.
