The Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Nigeria (ACTSON) has condemned the alleged invasion of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, describing the incident as disturbing and capable of undermining healthcare delivery.
The association also criticised the reported humiliation of Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Eyo Ekpe, who was allegedly involved in the incident during an EFCC operation.
According to reports, EFCC operatives allegedly stormed the hospital on May 12 during an investigation involving the authentication of a medical report, leading to the arrest of four staff members, including Prof. Ekpe.
The operation reportedly caused panic within the hospital environment and disrupted ongoing medical services, with doctors later embarking on an indefinite strike in protest.
In a joint statement, ACTSON President Abubakar Umar and General Secretary Salisu Ismail said the incident created chaos and undermined patient care in a highly sensitive healthcare setting.
The association described the treatment of the surgeon and other staff as degrading, stressing that hospitals require professionalism and restraint during any enforcement activity.
“Any operation carried out within such facilities must be approached with the highest level of professionalism, restraint, and respect for institutional processes,” the statement said.
ACTSON emphasised that while no one is above the law, law enforcement agencies must avoid actions that could jeopardise patient safety or public trust in healthcare institutions.
The group called for an immediate investigation into the incident and demanded that officers involved in the alleged misconduct be identified and sanctioned.
It also urged the management of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital and relevant professional bodies to take steps to safeguard the integrity and stability of medical services.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, has directed that an official apology be issued over the incident.
Olukoyede said the decision was taken in response to concerns raised by the medical community and members of the public.
He expressed regret over the development, noting that it did not reflect the standards expected of the commission.
He also confirmed that a full internal investigation has been ordered and assured that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face disciplinary action.
The EFCC chairman further pledged closer collaboration with relevant professional bodies to prevent similar incidents in the future, while reaffirming the agency’s commitment to its anti-corruption mandate.
