Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Akwa Ibom State branch, has called for a ‘holistic inquiry’ over the death of a young pregnant woman and her newborn at a General Hospital in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.
In a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Dr Gabriel Eyo and made available to the media in Uyo, it stated that the inquiry should also focus on “clinical decision-making, protocol adherence, manpower adequacy, equipment functionality, and overall institutional readiness while leaving no aspect unexamined.”
Following the death of the lady and her newborn child on Saturday, the state government has raised a committee comprising medical doctors, a lawyer , journalist and civil rights activists, nurses among others to investigate the incident.
The NMA said that “only through a comprehensive approach can sustainable corrective measures be drawn,” while expressing confidence in the calibre of the committee members.
“The Nigerian Medical Association, Akwa Ibom State Branch, acknowledges with deep concern the recent maternal mortality reported at the General Hospital, Ikot Ekpene.
“We sympathise deeply with the bereaved family and share in their grief. Every maternal death is one too many and deserves sober reflection.
“We note with satisfaction the calibre and diversity of professionals appointed to serve on the Committee, including experts in obstetrics and gynaecology, anaesthesiology, nursing, administration, law, and civil society.
” This multi-disciplinary composition provides a solid foundation for a thorough, evidence-based, and credible investigation, ” it added.
The association however expressed worry over “the deliberate attempts to malign and ridicule named doctors on unverified platforms without recourse to due process.”
It added that “these actions not only expose our members to unwarranted public attacks but also inflict needless pain on their families and tarnish the image of the medical profession.”
According to the NMA, until the findings are concluded, “it is unjust to attribute blame or circulate names of doctors in the court of social media opinion.”
“We strongly appeal to members of the public to desist from spreading unverified information or images that unfairly stigmatise innocent professionals.
” Such actions weaken morale within the health workforce, compromise trust, and distract from the important work of fact-finding and system improvement.
“The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) remains the statutory regulatory body mandated to investigate and adjudicate allegations of professional misconduct.
” Any findings of professional impropriety must therefore be referred appropriately, in line with established laws and procedures.
“The NMA in Akwa Ibom State stands firmly with her members and assures them of our full support and protection in the face of unfounded allegations. The Association will not hesitate to pursue all legal and professional remedies against any attempt to defame or unjustly malign her members,” the statement added.
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