Tension has escalated in Akwa Ibom State following an alleged assault on staff of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), sparking widespread condemnation and an indefinite strike by health workers.
The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday when EFCC officials stormed the hospital premises during an investigation to verify a medical report linked to a fraud suspect currently standing trial.
Among those affected was Prof. Effiong Ekpe, Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, alongside three other hospital staff members who were allegedly arrested.
Eyewitness accounts claim the situation turned chaotic after hospital workers resisted the arrest.
It was further alleged that EFCC operatives called for reinforcement, during which gunshots were fired into the air and tear gas was used to disperse staff and onlookers.
Some individuals were reportedly injured, while attempts by workers to document the incident allegedly led to the destruction of mobile phones.
In response, the EFCC maintained that its officers acted within the law, stating that multiple formal requests had been sent to the hospital management seeking verification of the medical report, but no response was received.
The agency added that its officers faced hostility from hospital staff, who allegedly attacked them and obstructed their exit from the premises.
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However, medical professionals have strongly condemned the operation.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Akwa Ibom described the incident as an unjustified attack on healthcare workers. According to the association, Prof. Ekpe was physically assaulted and treated in a degrading manner.
Reacting to the development, the NMA directed doctors across the state to embark on an indefinite strike, while the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) also announced a total shutdown of hospital services in protest.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed that officers were present during the incident but stated they were only there to verify the legitimacy of the EFCC operation.
The Commissioner of Police noted that the EFCC was acting on a court order and advised hospital authorities to cooperate.
Meanwhile, the incident has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians criticizing the EFCC’s approach and describing it as excessive and unprofessional. Concerns have also been raised about the safety of patients and the sanctity of healthcare institutions.
As tensions remain high, stakeholders are calling for a thorough investigation into the incident and urging both parties to adopt lawful and professional procedures in handling such matters.
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