The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) and the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) have strongly condemned the alleged invasion of the hospital by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the incident as unacceptable and a violation of professional ethics.
In a joint communiqué issued on Wednesday in Uyo after an emergency meeting, the groups also informed Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno of the situation, urging immediate intervention.
The EFCC had reportedly stormed the hospital on Tuesday, allegedly detaining members of the hospital management. The incident triggered an indefinite strike by health workers at the facility.
However, the EFCC denied any wrongdoing, stating that its operatives visited the hospital to verify a medical report connected to an ongoing fraud investigation. The agency also claimed its officers were attacked during the operation.
The medical associations criticised what they described as the excessive and reckless use of force, including alleged discharge of live ammunition, saying the operation endangered healthcare workers, patients, and staff within the hospital.
They described the incident as a violent invasion and condemned the alleged assault on hospital personnel, stressing that healthcare professionals should be protected rather than endangered.
The unions also demanded disciplinary action against EFCC personnel involved, insisting that security agencies must follow due process when operating within medical facilities.
They further accused operatives of forcibly entering offices and removing management staff without proper engagement with hospital authorities.
Among their demands were the immediate release of detained staff, compensation for victims, medical and psychological support for those affected, and a public apology published in national newspapers. They also called for repairs to damaged property.
The communiqué was signed by MDCAN and ARD leaders at UUTH, who stated that the strike would continue until their demands are addressed.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Akwa Ibom has also declared an indefinite strike in solidarity, reinforcing calls for accountability and redress over the incident.