The Nigerian Medical Association in Akwa Ibom State has commenced an indefinite strike following the alleged assault, arrest and detention of medical personnel at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The industrial action was announced in a communiqué issued after an emergency virtual congress held by the association on Tuesday.
Tension reportedly escalated within the hospital premises earlier in the day after EFCC operatives allegedly arrived at the facility in two saloon vehicles and a tinted bus. Witnesses claimed some operatives wore masks while others were dressed in EFCC-branded jackets.
During the operation, Eyo Ekpe, a professor of cardiothoracic surgery and Deputy Chairman of the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee, was reportedly arrested.
Videos circulating on social media showed scenes of panic as patients, hospital workers and visitors fled the area after teargas canisters were allegedly discharged within the hospital environment.
Reacting to the incident, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said operatives were at the hospital to verify a medical report submitted by a suspect being investigated for allegedly defrauding several microfinance banks, including the University of Uyo Microfinance Bank.
According to Oyewale, the commission’s operatives came under attack while carrying out legitimate investigative duties.
He stated that officers were pelted with stones during the operation.
However, the NMA strongly condemned the incident, describing it as an invasion of the hospital and an assault on healthcare workers.
In the communiqué signed by the association’s state chairman, Aniekan Peter, and secretary, Ighorodje Edesiri, the association demanded the immediate release of Ekpe and all detained personnel.
The association insisted that no negotiations would be entertained until the affected members regain their freedom.
The NMA further alleged that Ekpe was assaulted, handcuffed and forcefully taken away by masked operatives. It also claimed that gunshots were fired during the operation and that mobile phones belonging to individuals recording the incident were seized.
According to the association, the indefinite withdrawal of medical services will remain in effect across Akwa Ibom State until its demands are fully addressed.
The strike is expected to significantly disrupt healthcare delivery within the state, particularly at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, one of the region’s major referral centres.
