Medical doctors in Akwa Ibom State have commenced an indefinite strike following the alleged assault, arrest and detention of health workers by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
The industrial action was declared on Tuesday after an emergency congress convened by the Nigerian Medical Association in Uyo.
The association alleged that EFCC operatives invaded the hospital premises during an operation and assaulted some medical personnel, including the Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee of UUTH, Prof. Eyo Ekpe.
In a communiqué jointly signed by the Akwa Ibom State NMA Chairman, Prof. Aniekan Peter, and the Secretary, Dr Ighorodje Edesiri, the association condemned the incident, describing it as an attack on the integrity and sanctity of the medical profession.
“We condemn in strong terms the invasion of the hospital and assault on medical personnel by EFCC operatives,” the communiqué stated.
The association announced the immediate withdrawal of medical services across the state, insisting that the strike would continue until all detained members were released and its demands addressed.
The NMA further expressed concern over what it described as the increasing intimidation of healthcare workers while carrying out their professional duties.
However, the EFCC denied allegations that its operatives assaulted doctors or disrupted hospital activities.
The anti-graft agency explained that its officials only visited the hospital to verify a medical report linked to an ongoing investigation.
The development has raised concerns among patients and residents over possible disruptions to healthcare services in government hospitals across Akwa Ibom State.
