Over 200 delegates will converge in Abuja on Wednesday for an Emergency Delegates Meeting of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to resolve a lingering leadership crisis sparked by the disqualification of six aspirants for the ADM elections.
The disqualifications have drawn widespread criticism from state chairmen, caucuses, and the Committee of Past Presidents, who are demanding a reversal by NMA President, Bala Audu.
Chairman of States Chairmen of NMA, Dr. Oreyemi Ifedayo, said in Lokoja on Monday that the emergency meeting became “imperative after interventions failed.”
“The Committee of Past Presidents has met and resolved that these disqualifications must be reversed to ensure a level playing field. The committee’s decisions are final under the constitution,” Ifedayo stated.
*Lagos Chapter Crisis*
Meanwhile, the Lagos State chapter crisis worsened after members removed chairman Dr. Babajide Kehinde Saheed on Saturday during an emergency general meeting. First Vice Chairman Dr. Ewunowo Femidire emerged as new chairman.
The removal came despite an April 17 letter from NMA Secretary General, Dr. Benjamin Egbo, warning the chapter against “any gathering that failed to meet the constitutional requirements.” The national body said it would not recognise “any proceedings, resolutions, or outcomes arising from such meetings.”
Femidire defended the action, saying Saheed was given seven days to explain alleged constitutional infractions but failed to respond. “It was on that basis, and in line with our rules, that the Congress decided the chairman be removed,” he said.
But Saheed rejected the move as “unlawful” and a “clear violation” of the NMA constitution. “The chairman was duly elected by the general membership and remains the legitimate office holder. Any attempt to undermine this mandate through irregular means is of no effect,” he said.
The Abuja emergency meeting is expected to address both the disqualifications and the Lagos impasse ahead of the NMA’s national elections.
