NMA urged to lead medical fitness tests for 2027 presidential candidates
The Nigerian Medical Association should spearhead mandatory medical and psychiatric evaluations for all presidential candidates ahead of the 2027 election, argues a Premium Times editorial. It notes the 1999 Constitution (Sections 137 and 144) already recognizes medical incapacity as grounds for removing a sitting president, yet lacks pre-election assessment standards. The piece cites the Buhari administration's health secrecy as a cautionary example that fueled public anxiety and political controversy.
Presidential health is framed as a national security issue since the President serves as Commander-in-Chief, influencing foreign policy and federal governance. The editorial stresses evaluations must focus on capacity to discharge duties—not age, disability, or illness stigma—and be conducted by an independent multidisciplinary panel to ensure professional certification while protecting medical privacy. All candidates, including Tinubu seeking re-election, Atiku Abubakar (ADC), and Peter Obi, should undergo identical standards.
With the 2027 election approaching, the time to establish this principle is now—not after another health controversy escalates into crisis. Will Nigerians demand transparent, equal medical assessments for those seeking to lead the nation, or allow speculation to replace professional judgment?