The Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Anambra State Chapter, has denied reports that the person accused of k!lling an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, officer in Awka is a doctor.
In a statement made on Monday via its X handle by the association’s State Secretary, Dr Obiaeli Ifeanyi, the NMA stated that the suspect, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, is not a registered medical doctor nor an association member.
The explanation came after extensive media reports incorrectly identified the suspect as a medical professional.
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The NMA voiced worry over impostors using the term “medical doctor,” which it claimed tarnishes the medical profession’s reputation.
The event apparently occurred in the early hours of Friday, January 17, 2025, at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close in Ifite, Awka.
According to initial reports, Mr Ikechukwu, who is claimed to be involved in medical supplies, worked at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital.
However, the NMA’s preliminary investigation showed the following: Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu is not a NAUTH staff member.
“He is not a member of the NMA Awka Zone. No member of the association has been able to identify him as either a colleague or a member of the NMA.
“He is not a medical doctor. Although widely reported by the media as a doctor, Ikechukwu deals in medical supplies and was only erroneously addressed as one,” the statement added.
The NMA expressed worry about impostors and quacks abusing the “medical doctor” designation, claiming that this behaviour tarnishes the medical profession’s reputation.
The group expressed its condolences to the EFCC and the departed family, stating that Nigeria’s medical profession remains respectable and law-abiding.
