The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) has criticised the appointment process for the new Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH), Uburu, Ebonyi State, alleging significant breaches of due process.
In a letter addressed to the leadership of the National Assembly and signed by its Chairman, Trevis Ogbonna, and Secretary, Chinenye Osuji, the union expressed dissatisfaction with how the selection exercise was conducted.
The letter, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday, acknowledged the authority of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in overseeing such appointments.
However, the union stressed its responsibility as a key stakeholder to highlight perceived deviations from established guidelines, principles of fairness, transparency, and equity.
According to the union, the ongoing process is marred by “serious concerns,” including an alleged lack of transparency in the selection procedure, absence of public advertisement, and failure to conduct interviews.
“It is also pertinent to note that there was inadequate stakeholder engagement, particularly with key unions and internal bodies, as well as a perceived disregard for extant rules and guidelines governing the appointment of CMDs in federal tertiary health institutions,” the letter stated.
MHWUN emphasised that the position of CMD is critical to effective administration, clinical governance, and the overall development of the hospital, warning that any flawed or biased process could erode trust, create tension, and undermine the stable working environment required for quality healthcare delivery.
The union, therefore, called on the Minister of Health to intervene by ordering an immediate review of the appointment process to fill the position, which will become vacant upon the expiration of the tenure of the incumbent CMD, Prof. Uzoma Agwu, on July 1.
It also urged the minister to ensure strict compliance with established guidelines, as well as promote transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness in the selection process to safeguard the institution’s integrity.
The union maintained that its position was driven solely by the need to protect the credibility of DUFUTH and ensure that the most qualified candidate emerges through a transparent and acceptable process.
While reaffirming its commitment to industrial harmony and support for lawful efforts to strengthen the health sector, MHWUN warned that it may explore all legitimate avenues if its concerns are not promptly addressed.
