NMA Leadership Denies Faction Claims, Labels 54-Doctor Meeting Illegal

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) leadership asserts no internal division, labeling a recent gathering of 54 doctors an illegal Annual General Meeting. The association emphasizes its unified structure and constitutional adherence.

The Nigerian Medical Association leadership states there is no internal division among its members. Dr. Benjamin Egbo, the NMA Secretary General, affirmed the association's unity and its constitutional processes. This statement follows reports of a splinter group challenging the existing authority.

Egbo explicitly stated, "There is no faction in the NMA." He described recent actions by certain individuals as attempts to disrupt the association's constitutional order. These individuals, according to Egbo, refused to abide by established provisions.

The controversy centers on a gathering of 54 doctors, which Egbo labeled an illegal Annual General Meeting. He highlighted this group's size in contrast to the NMA's overall membership, noting the association represents more than 50,000 doctors across Nigeria. This disparity raises questions about the legitimacy of decisions made by a smaller cohort.

The NMA Secretary General also referenced a dispute stemming from candidate disqualifications for upcoming elections. Six out of 20 candidates, including one presidential aspirant, did not meet nomination form requirements. The NMA maintains these disqualifications followed transparent, pre-existing regulations.

The NMA leadership under Professor Bala Audu asserts its authority, stating all scheduled activities, including forthcoming elections and the Annual Delegates Meeting, will proceed as planned. Security agencies have been notified regarding the unauthorized meeting. The association’s secretariat implemented security measures to prevent unauthorized entry, denying claims of a shutdown.

The NMA urges media to report cautiously and advises against recognizing any alternative leadership. The association emphasizes that its internal mechanisms, such as the upcoming National Executive Council meeting, provide proper channels for addressing member grievances.

Observers will monitor the upcoming Annual Delegates Meeting and elections to assess the NMA's continued unity and adherence to its stated constitutional processes.