Posted on: Mon 20-04-2026

A leadership crisis has erupted within the Lagos State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) following the removal of its chairman, Dr. Babajide Kehinde Saheed, over alleged constitutional violations and failure to respond to a formal query. The association has elected Dr. Ewunowo Femidire, formerly the first vice-chairman, as the new chairman, a decision Saheed has rejected as illegal and void.

Congress Votes to Remove Chairman

Speaking after his election, Dr. Femidire said the decision followed due process as outlined in the NMA constitution. He explained that the former chairman was issued a written query and given seven days to respond to allegations of constitutional infractions but failed to do so.

“With the expiration of the stipulated window and no response from him, Congress, alongside leaders of affiliate groups, resolved to remove the chairman,” he said.

Femidire noted that the emergency general meeting where the decision was taken met all constitutional requirements.
“We had 112 members present, far above the minimum of 30, and nine affiliate groups in attendance. The two-thirds voting threshold for removal was also met,” he stated.

He added that his emergence was not an interim arrangement but a constitutional succession.
“Once a chairman is removed, the first vice chairman automatically becomes the substantive chairman. There is no acting chairman in this scenario,” he said.

New Leadership Sets Agenda

Femidire pledged to prioritise doctors’ welfare, strengthen unity within the association, and improve communication with affiliate groups.

“This is not an era where Lagos doctors will be subjected to dehumanising conditions. We will resist that vehemently,” he said.

He also criticised the state of Nigeria’s health sector, urging government intervention to improve infrastructure and welfare for healthcare workers.

The new leadership will complete the current tenure, with general elections scheduled later in the year.

Removed Chairman Rejects Decision

In a swift rebuttal, Dr. Saheed dismissed his removal as unconstitutional and lacking legal foundation.

“This action is unlawful and violates the NMA Constitution, which clearly outlines the procedures for election, tenure, and removal of officers,” he said in a statement.

He insisted he remains the legitimate chairman, describing the purported removal as “null, void, and incapable of producing any lawful consequence.”

Saheed urged members to disregard directives from what he called “unauthorised persons,” adding that legal steps were underway to challenge the development.

Crisis Deepens Within Lagos NMA

The conflicting claims have heightened tensions within the Lagos NMA, leaving members concerned about the stability and direction of the association as both sides prepare for what may become a prolonged leadership dispute.

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