Tension erupted at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) in Akwa Ibom State after an operation by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly caused panic within the hospital premises, disrupting medical activities and forcing workers to flee their duty posts.The operation led to the arrest of the hospital’s Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Professor Eyo Ekpe, a cardiothoracic surgeon. However, the exact reason for his arrest was not immediately disclosed.
According to witnesses, armed EFCC operatives stormed the hospital in what was described as a “commando-style” raid. The officials reportedly arrived in two saloon cars and a tinted bus, with some operatives wearing masks while others displayed EFCC insignia.Eyewitness accounts claimed the situation quickly turned chaotic after teargas was allegedly fired during the operation, triggering fear among staff, patients and visitors.“The entire place became chaotic. Patients and staff started running when they started shooting teargas and gun,” a witness reportedly said.Videos circulating online showed scenes of confusion across the hospital premises, with workers abandoning wards and patients left unattended as people scrambled for safety.
Some witnesses also alleged that a number of individuals sustained injuries during the commotion, although this has not been officially confirmed.Sources within the hospital disclosed that the operation disrupted clinical activities across several departments, creating fear among healthcare workers and raising concerns over patient safety, especially for those in critical condition.
Witnesses further alleged that EFCC operatives seized mobile phones from individuals who attempted to record or photograph the incident.Following the operation, labour unions within the hospital reportedly instructed workers to vacate the premises due to security concerns.In an internal statement issued by the UUTH branch of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, chairperson Effiong Unoekieoru directed nurses to immediately leave the hospital environment.“Sequel to the security concern due to invasion of the hospital premises by EFCC officials this morning, all the nurses are hereby directed to leave the hospital environment until the security situation is calm,” the statement read.Officials of the Trade Union Congress and the Senior Staff Association were also reportedly seen moving through wards and departments asking workers to leave the hospital.The incident has sparked concerns over the impact of the operation on healthcare delivery at the tertiary institution, particularly emergency response services, surgeries and patient care.
PREMIUM TIMES reported that separate enquiries were sent to both the EFCC and the management of UUTH seeking clarification on the operation, including the reason for Professor Ekpe’s arrest and allegations surrounding the use of force within the hospital premises.As of the time the report was filed, neither the EFCC nor the hospital management had issued an official response.
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