A leadership crisis in the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) escalated on Monday, as rival factions claimed legitimacy to the chairmanship of the Lagos State chapter. 

The dispute surfaced days after the national leadership publicly reaffirmed Dr Babajide Saheed as chairman of the Lagos branch.

Fresh controversy emerged after a faction within the Lagos chapter announced that Mr Saheed had been removed from office over alleged constitutional violations.

In a statement, the faction said Mr Saheed’s removal followed a properly constituted emergency general meeting held on April 18.

The meeting reportedly took place at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where members reviewed allegations and alleged infractions against him.

According to the statement, the NMA congress, described as the association’s highest decision-making organ, deliberated extensively before voting on his removal.

“The process was constitutional, valid and in accordance with the association’s regulations,” the faction stated.

 It added that Dr Ewonowo Temidire had assumed office as chairman, in line with established constitutional provisions. 

The faction further declared that Saheed no longer possessed the authority to act or correspond on behalf of the Lagos chapter. 

It also warned institutions, partners and stakeholders against engaging with him in any official capacity as chairman. 

However, the declaration appears to conflict with the national leadership’s earlier position on the matter.

During its national executive council meeting and annual general scientific conference in Kano, the national body reaffirmed Mr Saheed’s recognition.

The communiqué covered deliberations held between April 26 and May 3 and addressed the leadership status of Lagos. 

It stated that the Lagos State officers committee under Mr Saheed “remains recognised” by the national association. 

The communiqué was signed by Dr Afekhinde Omoti and Dr Tamunokuro Diamond.

Relying on the communiqué, Mr Saheed issued a statement on May 8 reaffirming his position as Lagos chairman.

“The recognition by the national body confirms the legitimacy of our leadership,” Mr Saheed said. 

The conflicting declarations have now exposed widening divisions within one of the association’s most influential state branches. 

The development has also raised questions about constitutional authority, legitimacy, and control over the association’s affairs in Lagos. 

Despite the leadership dispute, both camps insisted that doctors’ welfare remained a shared priority.

The faction announcing Mr Saheed’s removal also condemned growing cases of harassment and assault against healthcare workers.

“Attacks on doctors and healthcare personnel will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” the group warned. 

It also expressed concern over delays in salary payments affecting some medical practitioners across the state.

According to the faction, engagement with relevant authorities is ongoing to address welfare concerns.

Despite the internal divisions, the Lagos leadership maintained that the association remained united in defending members’ interests.

 (NAN)