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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Conflict & Security

NMA alerts security agencies to illegal delegates’ meeting

From The Punch · (10m ago) English Critical tone

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has alerted security agencies to an alleged illegal attempt to convene an emergency delegates meeting.
  • The NMA stated that the planned meeting was not sanctioned by any of its recognized constitutional organs and is therefore unlawful.
  • The association warned those involved against using its name to incite disorder and urged members to disregard the gathering.

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a strong warning, alerting security agencies to what it terms an "illegal attempt" by a faction to convene an unauthorized emergency delegates meeting. This move, according to the NMA's National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Mannir Bature, is a clear violation of the association's constitution and established procedures, threatening the stability and integrity of the professional body.

No Emergency Delegates Meeting has been sanctioned by the Office of the Secretary-General or any legally constituted organ of the Association.

— Dr. Mannir Bature, National Publicity Secretary of the NMAStating that the planned meeting lacks official approval.

The NMA insists that no such meeting has been sanctioned by its recognized organs, including the Office of the Secretary-General. The association's constitution explicitly prohibits any individual or group from unilaterally summoning such a critical gathering, underscoring the seriousness with which internal governance and procedural adherence are regarded within the NMA.

The NMA Constitution does not empower any group of individuals or members to unilaterally summon or convene an EDM outside established constitutional procedures.

— Dr. Mannir Bature, National Publicity Secretary of the NMAExplaining the violation of the association's internal rules.

By declaring the planned meeting "illegal, null and void," the NMA aims to preempt any actions that could disrupt its operations or damage its reputation. The association is particularly concerned about potential attempts to use its name or platform to incite disorder or perpetrate illegality. It has vowed to hold accountable any person or group found engaging in such activities, promising sanctions in line with its constitution and relevant regulations.

Any such gathering being organised in the name of the NMA is therefore illegal, null and void, and should be disregarded by all members.

— NMA statementDeclaring the planned meeting unlawful and instructing members.

The NMA's alert to security agencies is a proactive measure to ensure peace and stability not only within the association but also in the wider public space. The medical community plays a vital role in society, and any internal conflict that spills over could have broader implications. The association's firm stance reflects its commitment to upholding professional standards and maintaining order within its ranks, ensuring that its focus remains on advocating for improved healthcare and the welfare of doctors.

Any person or group found to be using the name, platform, or identity of the NMA to perpetrate illegality, incite disorder, or engage in acts that may lead to destruction of property will be held fully accountable.

— NMA statementIssuing a stern warning against misuse of the association's name.
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Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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