NMA condemns EFCC raid on Uyo Teaching Hospital, demanding investigation, apology and protection for healthcare workers

The Nigerian Medical Association, Gombe State branch, has condemned the alleged harassment, intimidation and assault of Professor Eyo Ekpe and other staff members of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

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The association described the incident, which occurred during an EFCC operation at the hospital on Tuesday, as “unfortunate, unacceptable, and a serious violation of the dignity, safety, and professional integrity of healthcare personnel.”

Operatives of the anti-graft agency had reportedly stormed the teaching hospital and arrested Professor Eyo Ekpe, a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon and Deputy Chairman of the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee, alongside some staff members.

Videos circulating online showed panic within the hospital premises as workers, patients and visitors fled for safety after teargas canisters were allegedly dispersed during the operation.

The incident triggered widespread outrage on social media, with many Nigerians criticising the conduct of the EFCC officers and expressing concern over the use of teargas within a medical facility.

However, the spokesman for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Dele Oyewale, defended the operation, stating that officers visited the hospital to verify a medical report submitted by a suspect remanded over allegations involving the defrauding of several microfinance banks, including the University of Uyo Microfinance Bank.

The position of the medical association was contained in a statement issued after a State Officers Committee meeting led by the Chairman of the NMA Gombe State Branch, Dr Ahmad-Adamu Girbo.

According to the association, Professor Ekpe and other healthcare workers were allegedly harassed and intimidated while carrying out official duties within the hospital.

The association warned that such incidents could negatively affect healthcare delivery and weaken the morale of medical personnel across the country.

“No security or government agency, regardless of its statutory responsibilities, should operate in a manner that disrupts clinical activities, endangers patients and staff, or humiliates healthcare workers carrying out lawful duties,” the statement said.

Nigerian Medical Association called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the incident and urged authorities to identify officers involved and apply appropriate disciplinary measures where necessary.

The association also demanded a formal apology and compensation for Professor Ekpe, affected staff members and the management of the teaching hospital.

It further appealed to the Federal Ministry of Health, professional bodies, civil society organisations and Nigerians to speak against harassment and intimidation directed at healthcare workers.

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The association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating justice, accountability and stronger protection for medical professionals in the discharge of their duties.