Tension in NMA Over Presidential Election as Disqualification Sparks Allegations of Interference

A looming crisis is brewing within the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) over allegations of interference in its presidential election by influential interests within the national officers’ committee, raising fresh concerns about the credibility of the electoral process.

The chairman of the association in Cross River State, Ezoke Epoke, raised the alarm during an interaction with journalists on Thursday in Calabar, where he alleged that the ongoing controversy surrounding the disqualification of a presidential aspirant had triggered widespread unease among members nationwide.

The development centres on the disqualification of a former vice-president of the association, Ofem Enang, from contesting the position of NMA president. The association’s election is scheduled to hold in Kano during its Annual Delegates’ Meeting from April 26 to May 3, 2026.

Mr Epoke described the disqualification as unconstitutional and capable of destabilising the association, warning that it could undermine confidence in its electoral system and deepen internal divisions.

According to him, stakeholders across the association have criticised the decision, describing it as biased and inconsistent with democratic principles. He argued that the NMA constitution clearly outlines eligibility and nomination procedures and does not empower any committee to arbitrarily disqualify candidates.

He further contended that administrative requirements, including the submission of multiple curriculum vitae and passport photographs, should not override constitutional provisions governing eligibility for elective offices within the association.

“This development has heightened tensions across branches, with many doctors alleging attempts to impose a preferred candidate, thereby undermining due process and weakening institutional integrity,” he said.

Mr Epoke called on past presidents and elder statesmen of the profession to intervene urgently to restore credibility to the process, warning that continued interference could fracture the association along political and sectional lines.

He also noted that the crisis comes at a time when the health sector is grappling with brain drain, industrial disputes, and policy inconsistencies, which he said could further weaken the association’s national influence.

In his reaction, Ofem Enang described his disqualification as arbitrary, alleging that it was driven by vested interests opposed to a transparent and competitive electoral process. He maintained that his nomination was duly submitted and acknowledged, but he was later excluded for what was described as incomplete documentation.

Mr Enang warned that if internal dispute resolution mechanisms fail, affected parties may resort to constitutional and lawful means to challenge the decision. He also argued that the presidency had been zoned to the South-South, insisting that his exclusion could disenfranchise Cross River and set a dangerous precedent.

“In light of this, I demand immediate reversal of this unconstitutional action and my reinstatement as a duly nominated candidate,” he said.

However, the President of the association, Bala Audu, defended the process, stating that disqualified candidates failed to meet constitutional requirements, including holding valid licences and submitting complete documentation.

He added that while the electoral committee conducts the elections, the secretariat handles submissions, and urged those making allegations to provide evidence to support their claims.