- The association further claimed that gunshots were fired during the incident
- The NMA described the development as disturbing and a violation of the sanctity of the hospital environment
- the doctors announced an immediate withdrawal of medical services across the state, insisting that no negotiations would take place
The Nigerian Medical Association in Akwa Ibom State has commenced an indefinite strike following allegations that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission assaulted and detained medical personnel at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
Eko Hot Blog exclusively report that the decision was reached during an emergency virtual congress held on Tuesday, where members strongly condemned the incident and demanded the immediate release of Professor Eyo Ekpe and other staff reportedly detained during the operation.
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In a communiqué jointly signed by the association’s state chairman, Aniekan Peter, and secretary, Ighorodje Edesiri, the doctors alleged that Professor Ekpe was assaulted, handcuffed and forcefully taken away by masked EFCC operatives within the hospital premises.
The association further claimed that gunshots were fired during the incident and that mobile phones belonging to individuals recording the operation were seized.
The NMA described the development as disturbing and a violation of the sanctity of the hospital environment.
The association also alleged that its state chairman was shoved and exposed to tear gas while attempting to obtain clarification from the operatives involved in the operation.
Following deliberations, the doctors announced an immediate withdrawal of medical services across the state, insisting that no negotiations would take place until all detained medical personnel were released.
The association also demanded a public apology from the EFCC and called for disciplinary action against officers allegedly involved in the incident.
In addition, the NMA disclosed plans to file legal action against the anti-graft agency, seeking ₦1 billion in damages.
Reacting to the allegations, the EFCC denied claims of assault and misconduct, maintaining that its operatives visited the hospital to verify a medical report submitted by a suspect facing trial over alleged fraud involving several microfinance banks.
In a statement shared on its official Facebook page, the commission explained that it had previously written twice to the hospital management requesting clarification on the medical report but received no response.
The EFCC stated that its operatives later visited the hospital as a final attempt to obtain the needed information but were allegedly attacked by some hospital staff who threw stones and other objects at them.
The commission also accused the hospital management of ordering the closure of the facility’s gates, which it said prevented officers from leaving the premises peacefully.
Despite the confrontation, the EFCC insisted that its personnel acted professionally and exercised restraint throughout the operation, adding that cooperation with lawful investigations remains a civic responsibility.
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