The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has ordered a full investigation into the conduct of its operatives following a controversial operation at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) on May 12, during which some medical staff reportedly suffered assault. The incident allegedly involved armed EFCC operatives who stormed the hospital in connection with the attempted arrest of a consultant over a disputed medical report.
The operatives were accused of assaulting the Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Professor Eyo Ekpe, a cardiothoracic surgeon, along with four other staff members during the operation. Ekpe later alleged at a press briefing that he and others were harassed and manhandled while the team attempted to arrest him over what the hospital management described as a fake medical report allegedly linked to internal and external collaboration.
Reacting to the backlash, Olukoyede expressed regret over the incident, stating that the conduct of the operatives fell short of the EFCC’s professional standards. He directed that an official apology be issued and warned that any officer found culpable after the ongoing review would face disciplinary action. He also stressed the need for cooperation with relevant institutions, including the medical community, to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Meanwhile, the hospital’s Chief Medical Director confirmed that the arrest was carried out without prior notice to hospital management or presentation of a warrant, adding that there were concerns about possible insider involvement in the issuance of the disputed medical report. The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, along with resident doctors at the hospital, condemned the incident and embarked on strike action, demanding sanctions against the operatives, compensation for injured staff, public apologies, and repairs for damaged property.
Elijah Adeyemi
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