The Ekiti State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has dismissed allegations of organ harvesting at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) as false, misleading and capable of eroding public confidence in the healthcare system.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Ifedayo Oreyemi, and Secretary, Dr Oluwatobi Akinluyi, the association said no organ was illegally or secretly removed from any patient at the hospital.
The NMA explained that the surgery in question involved a rare congenital kidney anomaly and that the removed kidney specimen was formally handed over to the patient’s wife in the operating theatre and subsequently taken to the pathology laboratory in line with standard medical practice.
“The specimen remains within the hospital system and was handled strictly in accordance with established medical, ethical and legal protocols,” the association said.
However, the NMA condemned the dismissal of the consultant surgeon involved, describing the action as excessive and disproportionate, and faulted the suspension of resident doctors and theatre staff, noting that those affected were not granted fair hearing.
According to the association, the disciplinary measures have negatively affected staff morale and raised concerns about possible resignations, with implications for patient care and service delivery.
While commending the Ekiti State Government for supporting the patient’s renal transplant and care, the NMA called for the immediate reversal of the surgeon’s dismissal and the suspension of other affected staff, urging that accountability be pursued through transparent, evidence-based and peer-reviewed processes.
