MDCAN, ARD condemn EFCC raid on Uyo varsity teaching hospital
The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) and the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) have strongly condemned a raid carried out by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.
The incident has sparked a major crisis in Akwa Ibom State's health sector, leading to an indefinite strike and a complete withdrawal of medical services
Details of the Incident
The Raid: On Tuesday morning, armed and masked EFCC operatives reportedly stormed the hospital in a "commando-style" operation. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as operatives allegedly fired teargas and gunshots within the hospital premises.
Arrest of Senior Staff: The EFCC arrested Professor Eyo Ekpe, a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon and Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), along with other staff members. Reports suggest Professor Ekpe was dragged out of his office, with some accounts even alleging he was interrupted during a surgical procedure.
Impact on Patients: The operation caused panic among patients, visitors, and health workers. Services were disrupted across several departments, and many patients were reportedly left unattended as staff fled for safety.
Condemnation by MDCAN and ARD
In a joint communiqué issued on Wednesday, May 13, the UUTH chapters of MDCAN and ARD described the raid as "unacceptable" and "barbaric."
Violation of Sanctity: The associations condemned the use of live ammunition and teargas in a clinical environment, stating it violated the sanctity of the hospital.
Assault Allegations: They accused the EFCC of physically assaulting medical personnel, including the NMA State Chairman, who was allegedly shoved and exposed to teargas while seeking clarification.
Demand for Action: The unions have called on Governor Umo Eno to intervene and have demanded the prosecution of the officers involved. They are also seeking ₦1 billion in damages and a formal public apology.
EFCC Response
The EFCC has denied allegations of a violent raid or unprofessional conduct.
Reason for Visit: The commission stated its operatives were at the hospital to authenticate a medical report presented by a fraud suspect. They claimed the hospital had ignored two previous letters requesting clarification.
Claim of Obstruction: According to the EFCC, their operatives were attacked by hospital staff who pelted them with stones and locked the facility gates to prevent them from leaving. They maintained that their officers exercised "maximum restraint."
Current Situation
While Professor Ekpe was released late Tuesday evening, the medical unions have insisted on continuing their indefinite strike across Akwa Ibom State. They maintain that the strike will not be called off until their demands for safety, dignity, and accountability are fully met.
