NMA Debunks Organ Harvesting Allegations at EKSUTH, Demands Reversal of Surgeon’s Dismissal

Sunday Ehigiator

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ekiti State Branch, has dismissed as false and misleading reports alleging organ harvesting at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), describing the claims as sensational, unfounded and capable of eroding public confidence in the healthcare system.In a statement yesterday, jointly signed by the Chairman of the Association, Dr. Ifedayo Oreyemi, and the Secretary, Dr. Oluwatobi Akinluyi, the association said it observed with deep concern the wave of misinformation circulating in both traditional and social media following a recent clinical case at the hospital, stressing that no organ harvesting took place at any time.“The Nigerian Medical Association, Ekiti State Branch, categorically and unequivocally states that no organ harvesting occurred at EKSUTH. At no point was any organ willfully, secretly or illicitly removed from the patient as insinuated in some quarters.”According to the Association, the allegations were not only false but also grossly misrepresented the facts of the case, with the potential to unfairly malign medical professionals and undermine public trust in healthcare delivery.

Clarifying the circumstances surrounding the surgery, the NMA explained that the procedure involved a rare congenital kidney anomaly which required critical, real-time intraoperative decision-making.“For the avoidance of doubt, following the surgical procedure, the removed kidney specimen was formally handed over to the patient’s wife inside the operating theatre in line with standard medical practice.

“She personally conveyed the specimen to the pathology laboratory for further evaluation. The specimen remains within the hospital system and has been handled strictly in accordance with established medical, ethical and legal protocols.”The association stressed that such complex surgical cases are well documented in medical literature and often require professional judgment guided by the patient’s best interest.The NMA, however, strongly condemned the dismissal of the consultant surgeon involved in the procedure, describing the action as premature and unjust.

While acknowledging the surgeon was invited to appear before an investigative panel, the association expressed concern that critical professional stakeholders were not adequately consulted before the decision to dismiss him was announced.“The sequence of actions gives the impression that the outcome was predetermined without the benefit of broad-based professional input,” the statement noted, adding that the move undermined confidence in the investigative process.The association also faulted the suspension of resident doctors and other theatre staff who were on duty at the time of the surgery, noting that they were neither invited to appear before any panel nor given the opportunity for fair hearing.“This approach violates the principles of natural justice and due process,” the NMA said, warning the decision has already affected staff morale and led to the withdrawal of locum consultants from the hospital, with fears of mass resignations, particularly within the Department of Surgery.According to the association, these developments pose a serious threat to healthcare delivery at EKSUTH and could worsen the already fragile manpower situation in the health sector.The NMA further described the dismissal of the surgeon as excessive and disproportionate, noting that surgical complications are known risks even in the most carefully conducted procedures, especially in rare and complex cases.“Professional accountability must be pursued through transparent, evidence-based and peer-reviewed mechanisms, not reactions driven by public pressure or misinformation,” it stated.The association also raised concerns over what it described as a pattern of unequal response by authorities, noting that previous cases involving assault or intimidation of doctors had not received similar urgency or decisive action.Despite its reservations, the NMA commended the Ekiti State Government for approving funding for the patient’s renal transplant and providing supportive care, describing the gesture as compassionate and commendable.However, it called for the immediate reversal of the dismissal of the surgeon and the suspension of resident doctors and theatre staff, urging the government to adopt a more consultative and transparent approach in handling sensitive medical matters.To prevent a recurrence, the association recommended the establishment of an independent, expert-led investigative panel; strict adherence to due process before disciplinary actions; development of a clear communication protocol on sensitive clinical issues; strengthened protection for healthcare workers; and sustained engagement between government, hospital management and professional bodies.Reaffirming its commitment to patient safety, ethical medical practice and the protection of professional integrity, the NMA urged the public and the media to exercise restraint and verify information before publication.“Unverified narratives that damage the reputation of medical professionals and institutions do more harm than good,” the statement concluded.