The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Anambra State has strongly refuted claims that the individual accused of killing an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) operative, Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu, is a medical doctor.
In a detailed statement released by the State Secretary of the association, Dr. Obiaeli Ifeanyi, the NMA clarified that the suspect has no affiliation with the medical profession or its associations in Anambra State. The incident, which occurred on Friday, January 17, 2025, at Dr. J.O. Ukwutinife Close, Ifite, Awka, has sparked widespread controversy, with initial reports alleging that a “medical doctor” was responsible for the act.
Dr. Ifeanyi emphasized that thorough investigations conducted by the association revealed that the accused is neither a medical doctor nor a member of the NMA. The statement further debunked earlier claims that the suspect was affiliated with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH).
“The attention of the leadership of NMA Anambra State has been drawn to online and newspaper publications alleging that a medical doctor shot an EFCC officer at Awka. In one of the publications, the purported doctor was said to be a staff of NAUTH. However, this claim has been debunked by the NAUTH management,” the statement read.
The NMA also disclosed that no member within its Awka zone or the broader association could identify the suspect as a registered medical professional. “Joshua Chukwubueze Ikechukwu is not a Medical Doctor (not even an academic doctor), as widely published by the media. He deals in medical supplies and has, unfortunately, been addressed as ‘Doctor,’” the statement added.
The association expressed disappointment over the suspect’s self-proclaimed title, describing it as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of the medical profession. It noted that the misrepresentation had caused undue harm to the image of Nigerian doctors and called for immediate corrections from all parties involved.
“We demand the immediate retraction of all defamatory publications from the EFCC and media outlets where the suspect was addressed as a medical doctor. Media organizations must ensure due diligence before publishing such sensitive information,” the statement demanded.
The NMA highlighted the role of responsible journalism in preventing the spread of misinformation, especially when professional reputations are at stake. It urged the public to disregard any reports linking the suspect to the medical profession and reiterated its commitment to upholding the integrity of its members.
The EFCC has yet to respond to the NMA’s demands, but the incident continues to generate significant public interest. As investigations unfold, the NMA has called on the media to exercise caution and accuracy in reporting such matters to prevent further damage to professional credibility.
This development serves as a reminder of the critical need for fact-checking and accountability in the dissemination of information, particularly in cases involving sensitive and high-profile incidents.
PIONEER NEWS 