The Cross River State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association has raised concerns over what it described as alleged interference in its electoral process, calling for strict adherence to democratic principles within the association.
This was disclosed by the NMA State Chairman, Dr Ezoke Epoke, during an interaction with journalists on Thursday in Calabar.
He stressed that the controversy centres on the disqualification of Dr Ofem Enang, a presidential contender whose disqualification has sparked widespread concern among members and stakeholders of the association nationwide.
Epoke expressed dissatisfaction with developments surrounding the elections, describing the move as unconstitutional and capable of causing unrest and disunity in the association.
He added that stakeholders have criticised the decision as biased, illogical, and a threat to the democratic principles guiding the NMA’s electoral process.
He said, “The NMA constitution outlined clear eligibility and nomination procedures but does not empower the NOC to disqualify candidates. The crisis is unconstitutional and capable of causing unrest and disunity in the association.”
He argued that administrative requirements, including multiple copies of curriculum vitae or 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 explained.
Epoke called on past presidents and elders of the profession to intervene and restore credibility to the process.
He warned that interference could erode confidence in leadership and fragment the association along political lines.
Also speaking, Prof. Ofem Enang, who is vying for the position of president of the association, described his disqualification as arbitrary, alleging it was driven by vested interests afraid of a fair contest.
He noted that his nomination was duly submitted and acknowledged, but he was later listed among disqualified candidates over alleged incomplete documentation.
He warned that if internal dispute resolution mechanisms failed, he may pursue redress through other constitutional and lawful means.
Enang added that the presidency was zoned to the South-South, noting that denying his candidacy could disenfranchise Cross River and set a dangerous precedent.
“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 to members of the NOC with vested interest to desist from discrediting the electoral process,” he emphasised.
Responding to the claims, NMA National President, Prof. Bala Audu, said anybody who was disqualified did not fulfil the constitutional requirements, which include an up-to-date licence, an application, and a requisite number of documents.
“As the president, I don’t conduct elections, my electoral committee does and the secretariat receives documents. There would always be allegations but the person who is alleging will have to prove,” he added.
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