The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) is facing growing concern following the disqualification of six candidates from contesting in its forthcoming national elections, according to a statement by one of the affected aspirants.
Dr. Sodipo Oluwajimi, a consultant family physician and candidate for the position of National Publicity Secretary, said the decision has generated widespread reactions within the association ahead of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled in the coming weeks.
Oluwajimi stated that the NMA, founded in 1960, was established to promote the welfare of medical doctors and strengthen healthcare delivery in Nigeria, noting that its members are trained in professionalism and best practices.
He said, “Despite meeting the constitutional requirement of a signed form with valid proposer and seconder alongside evidence of previously being a National Executive Council member, six candidates were disqualified, including myself.”
The aspirant added that concerns had been raised across various levels of the association regarding the development. “The overall consensus from organs of the association, including past presidents, past secretaries-general and members of the National Executive Council, is that the disqualification is illegal,” he said.
He, however, noted that the leadership of the association had yet to reverse the decision. “The President, Dr (Prof) Bala Audu, and members of his National Officers Committee have remained recalcitrant in reversing the disqualification,” he said.
Oluwajimi warned that the situation could impact the unity of the association if not addressed promptly. “With the myriad of healthcare problems in Nigeria, it will be unfortunate if developments within the association lead to crisis and division,” he said.
He called on stakeholders within the NMA to intervene. “It is pertinent that all organs of the association, including state chairmen, past presidents, delegates and members, immediately intervene to protect the integrity and governance of the association,” he said.
The aspirant further indicated that legal options may be explored if the matter remains unresolved. “Failure to do so will be challenged at the highest level of the judicial system,” he said.
Efforts to reach the NMA leadership for official response were not immediately successful as of the time of filing this report.