The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced plans to file a ₦1 billion lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of assault, harassment, and unlawful detention of medical personnel at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) in Akwa Ibom State.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict stems from a recent EFCC operation at UUTH, during which a senior medical consultant was reportedly arrested, and hospital activities were disrupted. The NMA strongly condemned the incident, labeling it a violation of the sanctity of healthcare facilities and an unacceptable infringement on the rights and safety of medical professionals.
Allegations Against EFCC
According to the NMA, EFCC operatives handled doctors forcefully and interfered with medical services during the operation. These claims have heightened concerns within the healthcare sector about the treatment of medical staff during law enforcement activities.
NMA's Legal Threat
The association has stated that it will not hesitate to pursue legal action, including a ₦1 billion damages claim, if its demands are not met. It is also calling for accountability and assurances that such incidents will not recur in healthcare facilities nationwide.
Reactions from the Medical Community
The dispute has sparked widespread reactions among healthcare workers, who express growing concern over what they perceive as increasing vulnerability of medical personnel during law enforcement operations in hospital settings.
EFCC's Response
The EFCC has denied all allegations, asserting that its operatives acted within the law while carrying out official duties related to an ongoing investigation. The commission insists that no assault occurred and that due process was followed during the operation.
Call for Clearer Protocols
The standoff has intensified calls for clearer operational protocols between security agencies and healthcare institutions, particularly regarding investigations in sensitive environments like hospitals. Medical stakeholders are urging the Federal Government to intervene to prevent further escalation, warning that continued tensions could negatively affect healthcare delivery in Akwa Ibom and beyond.
Both parties remain firm in their positions, and further developments are anticipated as the situation unfolds.
