…anyone disqualified doesn’t meet constitutional requirements…NMA President

By Ike Uchechukwu, CALABAR

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) is heading for a major internal crisis as its Cross River State branch has raised the alarm over alleged bias and undue interference by the National Officers’ Committee (NOC) in the association’s presidential election.

Dr Ezoke Epoke, Chairman of the NMA Cross River branch, disclosed this on Thursday in Calabar, describing the disqualification of presidential contender Dr Ofem Enang as unconstitutional and a clear act of injustice against a duly nominated candidate.

Vanguard gathered that Enang, who previously served as Second Vice President and State Chairman, was arbitrarily disqualified despite submitting all necessary nomination documents.

The election is scheduled for the NMA’s Annual Delegates Meeting (ADM) in Kano from April 26 to May 3.

Epoke said the move has sparked widespread concern nationwide, with stakeholders criticising it as biased, illogical and a threat to democratic principles.

He argued that the NMA constitution does not empower the NOC to disqualify candidates, stressing that administrative requirements such as multiple CVs and passport photographs cannot override constitutional provisions.

“This development has heightened tensions across state branches, with many doctors alleging attempts to impose a preferred candidate.

“Bypassing due process undermines the rule of law and weakens institutional integrity as unity within the NMA is critical, especially as doctors face mounting professional and welfare challenges nationwide,” he said

He called on past presidents and elders to intervene to restore credibility to the process.

Also speaking, Prof Enang, who is contesting the presidency zoned to the South-South, described his disqualification as arbitrary and driven by vested interests afraid of a fair contest.

“In the light of the foregoing I respectfully demand the immediate reversal of this unconstitutional action and my reinstatement as a duly nominated candidate for the office of the president of the NMA.

“Strict adherence to the provisions of the NMA constitution particularly article 11 governing elections and a caution of members of the NOC with vested interest to desist from discrediting the electoral process,” he emphasised.

When contacted , NMA President, Prof Bala Audu said that anyone disqualified did not meet constitutional requirements, including an up-to-date licence and relevant documents.

“As the president I don’t conduct elections; my electoral committee does and the secretariat receives documents,” he said, adding that allegations must be proved.