The Elegant Nurses Forum (ENF) has called for a free and fair electoral process in the ongoing National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) election at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The forum made the call in a statement issued by its National Executives following what it described as several complaints and concerns surrounding the electoral process.
According to ENF, it received reports that some candidates were disqualified from participating in the election for failing to meet stipulated eligibility requirements, including possession of a valid practising licence.
The forum said nurses should take professional registration and licensing seriously, stressing that a valid practising licence is an important requirement for lawful professional practice and, where applicable, participation in professional activities.
However, ENF clarified that it had no interest in interfering with or influencing the outcome of the election.
“ENF has no interest in interfering with or influencing the electoral process at FMC Abeokuta,” the statement said.
“We will not tell Nurses who to vote for, nor will we support or oppose any particular candidate.”
The forum urged nurses at the medical centre to make their choices based on candidates’ antecedents, records, character, credibility and commitment to the welfare of nurses.
It also called on all stakeholders involved in the election to ensure that the process was conducted in accordance with established rules and without intimidation or undue influence.
“Let the votes of Nurses count,” ENF said, warning against what it described as “unnecessary interference, manipulation, magomago and any action capable of undermining the will of the Nurses.”
The forum maintained that the outcome of the election should reflect the genuine choice of eligible voters, while every candidate should be given a fair opportunity to participate within the established rules.
It further congratulated the eventual winners in advance and pledged to support whoever emerges victorious on issues concerning the welfare, dignity, rights and professional interests of nurses.
“ENF remains committed to Nurses’ dignity, justice and advocacy, irrespective of who occupies any particular position,” the statement added.
The forum concluded with a call for transparency and respect for the electorate, saying: “Let the process be free. Let the votes count. Let the will of the Nurses prevail.”
