Akwa Ibom Doctors Sue EFCC for N1bn Over ‘Violent’ Hospital Raid

UYO, Akwa Ibom – The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Akwa Ibom State branch, has declared its intention to institute a N1 billion legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following a chaotic operation at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH).

​The association’s decision stems from a Tuesday raid where anti-graft operatives allegedly assaulted a prominent cardiothoracic surgeon, Professor Eyo Ekpe, and other medical personnel.

​Allegations of Brutality

​During an emergency press conference in Uyo on Wednesday, the state NMA Chairman, Professor Aniekan Peter, described the scene as “barbaric.” According to the association, masked EFCC operatives physically assaulted Professor Ekpe within the hospital premises, leaving him bleeding and in handcuffs.

​”Professor Peter was himself shoved and exposed to teargas when he approached the scene seeking clarification,” stated the association’s communique, read by Assistant Secretary Dr. Unyime Ndoh. The NMA further alleged that several other doctors and staff who attempted to intervene were also mistreated.

​The EFCC’s Defense

​The EFCC has defended its presence at the facility, stating that operatives were investigating a fraud case involving a suspect who had submitted a medical report from the hospital. The commission claimed the visit to the Chief Medical Director was a “last resort” to verify the document’s authenticity.

​While the EFCC acknowledged meeting resistance, it maintained that the team withdrew without disrupting hospital activities—a claim sharply contested by the NMA.

​Indefinite Strike and Demands

​The medical body has resolved to withdraw services until specific conditions are met, citing a gross violation of the “sacred” hospital environment. Their demands include:

• ​A formal public apology to the affected doctors and the institution.
• ​The immediate identification and prosecution of the operatives involved in the assault.
• ​A total cessation of medical services to EFCC officials and their relatives until the matter is resolved.

​”The hospital is a sanctuary for the sick and should not be subjected to violent operations by security agencies,” the communique added, noting that no prior invitation had been extended to Professor Ekpe before the forceful intervention.

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​Legal and Public Fallout

​The NMA’s N1 billion demand covers physical, emotional, professional, and institutional damages. Legal analysts suggest this confrontation could set a significant precedent regarding the limits of law enforcement powers within specialized public institutions.

​As of Thursday morning, the strike has paralyzed major activities at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, leaving patients and their families in a state of uncertainty as the standoff between the medical community and the anti-graft agency intensifies.