NMA Criticizes FG Over Delay in MDCN Reconstitution

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has condemned the federal government over the delay in reconstituting the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) following the tragic death of 21-month-old Nkanu Nnamdi Eseg, son of renowned writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. In a statement signed by NMA Lagos State branch chairman Sahe Kehind, the association emphasized the urgent need for the federal government to address the matter, particularly in light of the recommendations from a medical and dental practitioners' investigative panel.

This panel was established to investigate allegations of medical negligence related to the child's death, which involved two hospitals: Euracar Multispecialist Hospital and Atlanti Pediatric Hospital. The NMA highlighted that the MDCN is essential for establishing a disciplinary tribunal for medical practitioners to ensure justice is served.

The statement also criticized the current situation, noting that the failure to appoint members to the council exacerbates systemic failures within the health sector. President Bola Tinubu appointed Prof.

Afolabi Lesi as the new chairperson of the MDCN in 2024.