Operations at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) in Akwa Ibom State were disrupted on Tuesday after operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly stormed the facility in an attempt to arrest a staff member.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that tension escalated within the hospital premises after the arrival of the EFCC officials, leading to panic among workers, patients, and visitors. Reports claimed that the situation later degenerated into chaos as health workers resisted the arrest attempt.
Some staff members alleged that the operatives used force, including tear gas and warning shots, during the operation, resulting in confusion across different sections of the hospital. Several videos circulating online showed workers and patients running for safety during the incident.
Medical unions, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and other health sector groups, subsequently announced an indefinite strike and shutdown of services at the hospital in protest against the operation.
The EFCC, however, defended its actions, explaining that its operatives visited the hospital to verify a medical report submitted by a fraud suspect standing trial before the Federal High Court in Uyo. According to the commission, previous letters sent to the hospital management requesting authentication of the report received no response.
The anti graft agency further alleged that its operatives were attacked and prevented from leaving the premises after arriving at the hospital, insisting that the operation was lawful and professionally conducted.
Meanwhile, the incident has continued to generate widespread reactions from the public and civil society groups, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the disruption of medical services and the manner in which the operation was carried out within a healthcare facility.
