NMA Declares Indefinite Strike In Akwa Ibom Over Alleged EFCC Assault On Doctors –
Nigerian Medical Association in Akwa Ibom State Initiates Indefinite Strike Over Alleged Assault on Medical Personnel
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Akwa Ibom State has launched an indefinite strike in response to the alleged assault, arrest, and detention of medical staff at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) by agents of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The decision to strike was disclosed in a communiqué released following an emergency virtual congress held Tuesday.
Earlier that day, chaos erupted within UUTH as EFCC operatives reportedly arrived at the hospital in two sedans and a tinted bus, wearing both masks and EFCC-branded jackets. Eyewitnesses stated that the presence of the operatives caused widespread panic among patients, staff, and visitors.
Professor Eyo Ekpe, a cardiothoracic surgeon and Deputy Chairman of the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee, was reportedly among those arrested during the operation. Videos circulating on social media depicted individuals fleeing the scene as tear gas was allegedly deployed inside the hospital.
In defense of the operation, Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity for the EFCC, stated that operatives were present to verify a medical report connected to a suspect accused of defrauding multiple microfinance banks, including the University of Uyo Microfinance Bank. Oyewale claimed that his team faced attacks, including being pelted with stones, while conducting their inquiries.
In its communiqué, signed by NMA state chairman Aniekan Peter and secretary Ighorodje Edesiri, the association condemned what it termed an invasion of the hospital. The NMA is demanding the immediate release of Professor Ekpe and other detained staff, asserting that negotiations will not commence until those members are freed.
The NMA further alleged that Professor Ekpe was assaulted, handcuffed, and forcibly removed by masked operatives, claiming that shots were fired during the incident and that recording devices belonging to witnesses were confiscated.
The NMA confirmed that its indefinite withdrawal of services will significantly impact medical care across Akwa Ibom State until their demands are addressed.
