The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has been thrown into a leadership crisis as delegates suspended the National President, Professor Bala Audu, and the entire National Officers Committee (NOC) for violating the association's constitution. The decision was reached during an Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM) held in Abuja, which was attended by 63 members, including chairmen and secretaries from 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Disqualification of Candidates Sparks Crisis
The suspension stemmed from allegations that the Audu-led administration illegally disqualified six members from contesting various positions in the association's national election, scheduled to hold during the NMA Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Kano from April 27 to May 3. According to sources, the NOC disqualified the aspirants on the grounds of submitting incomplete documents, a move that delegates deemed unconstitutional.
Caretaker Committee Appointed
Following the suspension, a caretaker committee was immediately constituted, headed by former Secretary General of the association, Dr Ekpe Phillips. The committee is tasked with running the affairs of the NMA until after the election and ensuring that the Audu-led NOC faces a disciplinary committee. If found guilty, the suspended officers will be sanctioned accordingly.
During the meeting, delegates unanimously voted to reverse the disqualification of the six candidates. The voting was moderated by Dr Omotayo Adetunji and Dr Fernandez Akinnagbe, who were nominated as Chairman and Secretary, respectively, before the commencement of the EDM.
Delegates Condemn NOC's Actions
Members expressed strong disapproval of the NOC's actions, noting that the disqualification was illegal and violated the NMA constitution. The Chairman of the EDM, Dr Omotayo Adetunji, stated that the disqualified candidates had been duly nominated by their respective states and had submitted their forms. He criticized the NOC for claiming irregularities, describing the excuse as alien to the NMA.
“We tried all we could to resolve this matter peacefully before the EDM, but to no avail. The NOC adamantly refused to listen. We then collected signatures from 105 members, covering two-thirds of the state branches, to convene this meeting. Our stance is clear: what Audu did is a violation of the NMA constitution,” Adetunji said.
Support from NMA-FCT Chairman
The Chairman of NMA-FCT, Dr Emeka Ayogu, supported the decision, stating that members had no choice but to take such action after all efforts to broker peace failed. He condemned the level of impunity and arrogance demonstrated by the Audu-led NOC, emphasizing that the EDM was necessary to prevent the association from being brought into disrepute.
“We want an NMA that remains united and focused on the rights and welfare of its members,” Ayogu added.
