Medical Union Urges Buhari to Name Cabinet

The Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria on Monday expressed concern over President Muhmmadu Buhari’s delay in constituting his cabinet.

The President of MDCAN, Steve Oluwole, at a press briefing in Abuja, said the vacuum resulting from Mr. Buhari’s refusal to form a complete government one month after his assumption of power is “dangerous”. 

He said, “It is obvious, we have concerns; we are not isolated, we are not the only ones affected, there are certain issues that we want to raise or oppose but we can’t do. But we cannot say because it is a new government coming in. Even if it is another party that takes over, things move within hours, so we can’t say because it is a new party and government that is why it is so.”

Mr. Oluwole explained there is need to address some critical issues in the health sector.He challenged Mr. Buhari to move fast in addressing the vacuum created in the running of the government. 

“We want the president to expedite action; because, it becomes indefensible to our own democracy where it looks like there is vacuum, no movement in that ministry.”

“There is an urgency to have a functional government, not just have elections, or constitute National Assembly like we have now, that is not sufficient, and I think our patience is running out now as a nation.”

Further, he advised the President on the credentials to be considered in appointing the new health Minister.

“Buhari’s administration should take into consideration in appointing (Minister of Health) not just a doctor but somebody who has the basic medical qualification, post – graduate qualifications and knowS public health.”

Mr. Oluwole also called on his striking colleagues to restore services and return to work.

He said the MDCAN had adopted “the directive of the NMA that all hospitals on strike to demand skipping salary adjustment and should suspend such.”

Mr. Oluwole mandated all branches of MDCAN to ensure that consultants restore services in all specialities with the full complement of staff assigned to them to discharge their duties.

Further, he pleaded with the National Association of Resident Doctors to call of their strike in public interest.