Presidential Candidate and Others Reject NMA Disqualification
Ofem Enang, a professor of internal medicine at the University of Calabar and a presidential candidate in the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) election, has rejected his disqualification by the National Officers’ Committee (NOC). Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Enang described the move as unconstitutional and a violation of the association’s constitution.
Enang, along with fellow disqualified candidates Dr. Muhammad Isah and Dr. Sodipo Olanrewa, argued that the disqualification was based on technical administrative interpretations, specifically regarding the number of copies of curriculum vitae submitted. He emphasized that the NMA constitution does not grant the NOC authority to disqualify candidates on such grounds.
Citing Article 11(1b) of the NMA constitution, Enang stated, “All members shall, subject to the provisions of Article 4 of this constitution, be eligible to contest elections to any office.” He argued that constitutional criteria, not administrative discretion, determine eligibility, and that the disqualification represents an overreach of authority inconsistent with due process.
The candidates called for strict adherence to the NMA constitution, fairness in the electoral process, and non-interference by the NOC. They also urged doctors across Nigeria, past presidents of the NMA, and association chairmen to defend the professional body.
Dr. Isah and Dr. Olanrewa further appealed to the Nigerian Police and the Federal Capital Territory Administration to intervene, warning that tensions within the NMA could escalate if the issue is not addressed promptly.
The disqualification has sparked concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the potential for manipulation in favor of preferred candidates. The candidates’ demands highlight the need for transparency and adherence to constitutional provisions in the upcoming election.
