Medical doctors and health workers at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), Akwa Ibom State, have commenced an indefinite strike following a confrontation involving operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The strike was declared after tensions reportedly escalated when EFCC operatives arrived at the hospital on Tuesday to effect an arrest linked to an ongoing court case.
Clash at hospital sparks unrest among staff
Eyewitness accounts claimed the operation led to resistance from hospital staff, prompting reinforcement by EFCC operatives, with reports of gunshots fired into the air to disperse crowds.
Some staff members were allegedly injured during the incident, while hospital property, including phones, was damaged amid attempts to record the scene.
Health workers shut down services in protest
Following the incident, medical unions in Akwa Ibom State, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and Joint Health Sector Unions, ordered an immediate shutdown of services across hospitals in the state.
NMA officials described the operation as heavy-handed and called for justice, alleging that senior medical personnel were assaulted and detained during the encounter.
Authorities give conflicting accounts
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command stated that officers were involved in a lawful operation connected to a court order, adding that they coordinated with relevant authorities to verify the exercise.
The EFCC, however, maintained that its actions were lawful and necessary in the course of an ongoing investigation.
The situation has led to a complete halt of medical services in the hospital as tensions continue between health workers and security agencies.
Adejayan Gbenga
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