…Insists removal plot violates Constitution
The leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) escalated on Saturday as its Chairman, Dr Babajide Kehinde Saheed, firmly rejected claims of his removal, describing the move as unconstitutional, unlawful, and without any legal standing.
In a strongly worded statement issued in Lagos, Saheed said the purported announcement by a group claiming to have ousted him from office contravenes the association’s constitution and due process requirements.
He stressed that the NMA constitution clearly outlines procedures for the election, tenure, and removal of elected officers—none of which, he said, were followed by those behind the move.
“This action is not only unlawful but also constitutes a clear violation of the Constitution of the Nigerian Medical Association,” Saheed said. “At no point were these constitutional provisions observed or complied with.”
The chairman described the development as “an exercise in futility,” insisting it lacks “any legal foundation, constitutional validity, or institutional recognition,” and is therefore “null, void, and incapable of producing any lawful consequence.”
Reaffirming his legitimacy, Saheed maintained that he remains the duly elected chairman with a valid mandate from members of the association.
“The Chairman was duly elected by the general membership and remains the legitimate office holder,” he said, warning that attempts to undermine this mandate through “irregular and unauthorised means” would not stand.
The statement underscored that the alleged removal failed to meet constitutional requirements, making it invalid and unenforceable within the association’s framework.
Saheed also issued a directive to members, urging them to disregard any communications or instructions from individuals or groups not recognised by the official leadership of the NMA Lagos chapter.
“All members are advised to disregard any communication or directive emanating from unauthorised persons or groups,” he stated.
Highlighting the broader implications, the chairman warned that actions undermining constitutional order within the association could threaten its unity and distract from its core mandate of promoting professional excellence and safeguarding public health.
He further disclosed that appropriate measures, including legal action, are being considered to address the situation and protect the integrity of the association.
Despite the tension, Saheed called for calm among members and stakeholders, urging adherence to the rule of law.
“We call on all members to remain calm, law-abiding, and focused on the core objectives of the Association,” he said.
The latest development signals deepening divisions within the NMA Lagos chapter, raising concerns about stability within one of the country’s most influential medical bodies and its potential impact on healthcare delivery in the state.
Further updates, the chairman noted, will be communicated through official channels.
