(University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. Photo Credit: Daily Post)
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Akwa Ibom State has embarked on an indefinite strike following an alleged attack, arrest, and detention of medical staff by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH).
The strike action was unanimously agreed upon at an emergency congress of the association held on Tuesday in Uyo.
According to the NMA, the incident unfolded when EFCC operatives reportedly entered the hospital premises during an operation, during which some doctors were allegedly assaulted and arrested, among them Professor Eyo Ekpe, who serves as Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at UUTH.
In a joint communiqué signed by the state NMA Chairman, Professor Aniekan Peter, and Secretary, Dr. Ighorodje Edesiri, the association strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a blatant disregard for the sanctity of a hospital environment.
The association declared an immediate and indefinite suspension of medical services across the state, vowing to remain on strike until all detained members are freed and their grievances are adequately addressed.
In response, the EFCC rejected the allegations of assault, clarifying that its operatives only visited the hospital for the purpose of verifying a medical report connected to an ongoing investigation, and did not at any point attack any medical personnel.
