The Nigerian Medical Association, Anambra State Chapter, has discredited reports identifying the individual accused of killing an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission officer in Awka as a medical doctor.
In a statement released on Monday by the State Secretary, Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, via X (formerly Twitter), the NMA clarified that the suspect, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, is neither a licensed medical practitioner nor a member of the association.
This clarification comes in response to widespread media reports misrepresenting Ikechukwu as a medical professional.
The tragic incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Friday, January 17, 2025, at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka. Media outlets initially claimed that Ikechukwu, allegedly involved in medical supplies, was a staff member of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital.
However, the NMA, following its preliminary investigation, refuted these claims. Dr. Ifeanyi emphasized: “Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu is not a staff member of NAUTH, as confirmed by the hospital’s management. He is not a member of the NMA Awka Zone, and no member of our association has identified him as a colleague. Importantly, he is not a medical doctor.”
The association noted that Ikechukwu deals in medical supplies and was erroneously referred to as a doctor, a mistake that has fueled public misinformation.
The NMA expressed strong concerns over the misuse of the title “medical doctor” by unqualified individuals. The association stated that such actions undermine the credibility and reputation of the medical profession.
“The NMA Anambra State hereby notifies the media and the EFCC that the suspect is not a medical doctor. We demand an immediate retraction of all defamatory publications where he was referred to as one. The media must ensure due diligence before publishing unverified claims,” Dr. Ifeanyi stated.
The NMA extended its condolences to the EFCC and the family of the deceased officer, reiterating that the medical profession upholds high ethical standards and remains a law-abiding field in Nigeria.
“Our thoughts are with the bereaved family and the EFCC during this difficult time,” the statement added.
