Kidnapped Doctor Resumes As Acting Head Of Federal Psychiatric Hospital

DR Charles Ikeji who was kidnapped on January 12 this year and released six days later by his abductors, resumed duty at the Federal Psychiatric Hospital, Benin not as a senior consultant that he was before he was kidnapped, but as the Acting Managing Director of the hospital.He was welcomed by jubilant members of staff who danced with him round the entire complex singing praises to God.The workers, including some retirees who complained that they had not been paid their stipends for four years now, had gathered as early as 7.30 waiting for their new boss whose abduction many of them believe was politically motivated.He arrived the compound in his private car at around 8 am and was immediately surrounded by staff led by the Chairman of the Senior Staff Association, Kennedy Osamwonyi.Addressing the workers in an emotion-laden voice, Ikeji pledged to carry the workers along in his administration.'It has not been very easy. On January 12th, I was kidnapped and I was in the kidnappers' den for six days. I came out and I know the role all of you played. I can't thank you enough but God will thank you.'When I saw and heard it, I was amazed. This institution is owned by the federal government and it has its functions. Part of the function is to serve the public and what I pray is that we will face that assignment and do it dutifully.'What I want to assure everybody is that I will be fair to all. When something goes wrong, don't write petitions. Please report to me directly or anywhere you see me because my doors will be opened to everybody.'There must be fair play, there must be equity, there must be justice. I am not here to witch-hunt anybody because first, I see myself as a worker,' he said.Turning the pensioners, he said: 'Your predicament, we will do our best to solve it. We will go to the ministry for assistance and you will be carried along.'He urged the union leaders to work hard for the welfare of every of their members. 'I want a vibrant union, we must work together. If you have any grievances, tell management.
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