The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Aniekan Peter, has refuted claims of a new crisis within the organization, deeming such reports as misleading. This statement came in response to unrest among some members who circulated an internal audit report, sparking concerns over alleged financial mismanagement by the previous executive council led by Prof. Emem Abraham.
Addressing the media in Uyo following a leadership retreat, Dr. Peter clarified that the former chairman had never been accused of any financial misconduct within the association. “As the Chairman of NMA AKS, along with my executive team, I categorically state that this report does not reflect the views of NMA AKS,” he stated.
Dr. Peter explained that the audit report presented during the Annual General Meeting was not accepted for discussion due to discrepancies and the absence of a signature from the committee’s Secretary. Consequently, the Congress opted to engage independent external auditors to conduct a thorough review of the association’s finances.
“We are currently awaiting the necessary documents from the chairman of the audit committee to facilitate the external audit, as agreed by the Congress,” he added, reinforcing that Prof. Emem Abraham has not been implicated in any financial wrongdoing.
The chairman committed to upholding the results of the external audit, emphasizing transparency in the process: “The findings will be shared with the Congress and made public. There will be no cover-up, and any wrongdoing identified will be addressed appropriately.”
Dr. Peter urged the community to dismiss any negative narratives regarding the NMA that aim to tarnish its reputation and integrity.
