The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has apologised to Professor Eyo Ekpe and members of the Nigerian Medical Association following the controversial arrest and alleged assault of medical personnel at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Akwa Ibom State.
The incident, which triggered outrage among doctors and led to strike actions across the state, occurred on May 12 when EFCC operatives reportedly stormed the hospital and arrested Ekpe, Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee of UUTH, alongside other staff members.
In a statement released on Monday through its official X handle, the anti-graft agency said EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, ordered the apology after reviewing a preliminary report on the incident.
“Pursuant to the receipt and consideration of a preliminary report on the May 12, 2026 incident involving personnel of the Commission and medical staff of the Uyo University Teaching Hospital, the Executive Chairman, Mr Ola Olukoyede has directed that an apology be made to Professor Eyo Ekpe… and members of the Nigerian Medical Association,” the statement read.
The commission expressed regret over the incident and acknowledged the discomfort caused to hospital workers and members of the public.
The EFCC also confirmed that a full investigation had been launched into the operation, assuring Nigerians that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face disciplinary action.
“While acknowledging that the wellbeing of Nigerians is at the core of the Commission’s mandate, he expressed regret at the discomfort the unfortunate episode caused staff of the hospital and members of the public,” the statement added.
Olukoyede further pledged to work with relevant stakeholders to prevent a repeat of such incidents in the future.
Despite the controversy, the EFCC maintained that the development would not stop the agency from carrying out its anti-corruption responsibilities nationwide.
“He, however, stated that the unfortunate incident would not detract the commission from pressing ahead with the execution of its mandate in any part of Nigeria,” the agency stated.
The commission also appealed to members of the NMA and other professional groups to continue supporting its fight against corruption and financial crimes.
The incident had earlier sparked widespread condemnation after EFCC operatives allegedly assaulted hospital staff during an investigation linked to the verification of a medical report. Four hospital workers, including Professor Ekpe, were arrested during the operation.
Following the development, the Akwa Ibom chapter of the NMA declared an indefinite strike across state hospitals, while the association’s national body demanded the prosecution of officers involved in the incident.
