Doctors Begin an indefinite strike after the alleged assault, arrest and teargas attack on medical workers at UUTH by EFCC operatives.
Doctors in Akwa Ibom State have started an indefinite strike over the alleged assault of medical workers by EFCC operatives.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) announced the action after an emergency virtual meeting on Tuesday.
The incident happened at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH).
According to reports, EFCC operatives entered the hospital in two saloon cars and a tinted bus.
Witnesses said some officers wore masks, while others wore EFCC jackets.
During the operation, operatives reportedly arrested Professor Eyo Ekpe.
Ekpe is a professor of cardiothoracic surgery and deputy chairman of the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee.
Meanwhile, videos shared online showed workers, patients and visitors running for safety.
Reports also claimed that operatives fired teargas inside the hospital premises.
However, EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, denied wrongdoing during the operation.
According to him, the officers visited the hospital to verify a medical report linked to a suspect under investigation.
The suspect reportedly faces allegations of fraud involving several microfinance banks.
Oyewale also claimed that some people attacked the operatives during the visit.
He said the officers came under attack with stones while carrying out their duties.
Despite the explanation, the NMA strongly condemned the operation.
In a communiqué, the association described the incident as an invasion of the hospital.
The statement carried the signatures of NMA chairman, Aniekan Peter, and secretary, Ighorodje Edesiri.
The association alleged that operatives assaulted and handcuffed Ekpe before taking him away.
It also claimed that gunshots were fired during the incident.
Doctors Begin an indefinite strike after the alleged assault
Furthermore, the NMA accused operatives of seizing phones from people recording the scene.
The doctors described the action as barbaric and unacceptable.
As a result, the association ordered an immediate withdrawal of medical services across the state.
The NMA also said it would not hold talks with the EFCC until all detained members regain freedom.
In addition, the association demanded a public apology from the anti-graft agency.
The doctors also called for the prosecution of officers involved in the operation.
According to the NMA, its state chairman also suffered exposure to teargas during the incident.
The association warned that it could file legal action against the EFCC.
It added that it would seek ₦1 billion in damages if authorities fail to meet its demands.
