The Nigerian Medical Association in Akwa Ibom State has declared an indefinite strike following a controversial operation by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.

The decision was reached after an emergency virtual congress held on Tuesday, according to a communiqué issued by the association.

Tension reportedly erupted within the hospital premises after EFCC operatives arrived in two saloon cars and a tinted bus during an operation that quickly caused panic among staff, patients, and visitors.

Witnesses claimed some of the operatives wore masks while others were dressed in EFCC-branded jackets.

During the operation, Professor Eyo Ekpe, a cardiothoracic surgeon and deputy chairman of the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee, was reportedly arrested by the anti-graft agency.

Videos circulating online showed scenes of chaos as people within the hospital compound ran for safety after teargas canisters were allegedly discharged around the facility.

Reacting to the incident, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the agency’s operatives had only visited the hospital to verify a medical report submitted by a suspect currently in custody over allegations involving the defrauding of several microfinance banks, including the University of Uyo Microfinance Bank.

Oyewale maintained that the officers were carrying out lawful duties when they came under attack.

According to him, the operatives were pelted with stones during the exercise.

However, the NMA strongly condemned the operation, describing it as an invasion of a medical facility and a serious violation of the sanctity of the hospital environment.

In the communiqué signed by the association’s chairman, Aniekan Peter, and secretary, Ighorodje Edesiri, the doctors alleged that 

Professor Ekpe was physically assaulted, handcuffed, and forcibly taken away by masked operatives.

The association also alleged that gunshots were fired during the incident and that mobile phones belonging to individuals attempting to record the operation were confiscated.

The NMA described the development as “barbaric,” insisting that hospitals should remain safe spaces free from violent confrontations and intimidation.

Following the incident, the association announced an immediate and indefinite withdrawal of medical services across Akwa Ibom State.

The doctors further stated that they would not engage in any negotiations until all detained members were released.

Among its demands, the association called for a public apology from the EFCC and requested the prosecution of officers allegedly involved in the operation.

The NMA also claimed that its state chairman was shoved and exposed to teargas while attempting to seek clarification from the operatives during the incident.

The association warned that it would take legal action against the EFCC and pursue ₦1 billion in damages if its demands are not met.

The incident has continued to spark reactions online, with many Nigerians questioning the conduct of security agencies within sensitive public institutions such as hospitals.