Lagos NMA Urges Governor Sanwo-Olu to Intervene in LASUCOM Provost’s Interdiction

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Lagos State Branch has voiced serious concerns over the recent interdiction of Prof. Abiodun Adewuya, the Provost of Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM). The NMA is calling on Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to mediate in the ongoing dispute between Prof. Adewuya and Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU).

In a statement issued by Dr. Saheed Babajide, Chairman of the NMA Lagos State, the association stressed that this is the second time in six years that a LASUCOM Provost has been interdicted. The NMA highlighted the detrimental impact this pattern could have on the college's progress, which has seen significant growth and international recognition.

Dr. Babajide emphasized the critical role LASUCOM plays in training healthcare professionals in Lagos State and beyond. The NMA is concerned that the repeated disciplinary actions against the college's leadership could hinder its stability and development. The statement reads:

“The NMA Lagos State is deeply concerned about the repeated interdiction of LASUCOM Provosts by the Vice Chancellor of LASU. This recurring issue suggests underlying conflicts and has the potential to disrupt the college’s advancement, which has been remarkable over the past 25 years.”

The NMA’s statement also pointed out that such frequent interdictions are unusual and have led to unnecessary legal disputes and financial wastage. They are urging Governor Sanwo-Olu to step in and address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to LASUCOM’s reputation and progress.

The association calls for the Governor to use his influence as the Visitor to LASU to resolve the conflict between the Provost and the Vice Chancellor, emphasizing that the current situation is not in the public interest and is detrimental to the educational and healthcare landscape in Lagos State.