The Nigerian Medical Association in Akwa Ibom State has declared an indefinite strike following allegations of assault, arrest, and detention of medical personnel at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The decision was taken during an emergency virtual congress of the association held on Tuesday, where members condemned what they described as an invasion of the hospital and demanded the immediate release of Professor Eyo Ekpe, Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at UUTH, along with other detained staff.

In a communiqué signed by the State Chairman, Professor Aniekan Peter, and Secretary, Dr. Ighorodje Edesiri, the NMA alleged that Professor Ekpe was physically assaulted, handcuffed, and forcibly taken away by masked operatives within the hospital premises.

The association also claimed that gunshots were fired during the incident, while phones belonging to individuals recording the event were confiscated. It described the situation as “barbaric” and a violation of the sanctity of the hospital environment.

The NMA further alleged that its State Chairman was shoved and exposed to tear gas while attempting to seek clarification from the operatives.

Following deliberations, the association announced an immediate and indefinite withdrawal of medical services across Akwa Ibom State, insisting that no dialogue would be considered until all detained members are released.

It also demanded a public apology from the EFCC, the prosecution of officers allegedly involved in the operation, and announced plans to institute legal action against the commission, seeking N1 billion in damages.

Meanwhile, the EFCC has denied the allegations, stating that its operatives visited the hospital to authenticate a medical report presented by a suspect standing trial for alleged fraud involving multiple microfinance banks.

In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the commission said it had earlier written two letters to the hospital management requesting clarification on the medical report but received no response.

The EFCC said its operatives later visited the hospital as a last resort for clarification but were allegedly attacked by some staff members who pelted them with stones and other objects.

The commission also alleged that hospital management ordered the closure of the facility’s gates, making it difficult for its operatives to exit peacefully.

However, the EFCC maintained that its officers acted professionally and exercised restraint, stressing that cooperation with lawful investigations remains a civic obligation. (Channels TV)