Lagos NMA Criticizes EFCC Raid on UUTH, Threatens Solidarity Strike

…Demands apology over alleged assault on consultant, disruption of medical services

By Chioma Obinna

The Lagos State Branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) issued a statement on Friday condemning what it described as an unlawful incursion by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officers into the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH). The branch warned that doctors in Lagos could join an ongoing indefinite strike in Akwa Ibom if the situation is not resolved promptly.

Dr. Babajide Saheed, chairman of NMA Lagos, said the alleged assault on Prof. Eyo Ekpe, deputy chairman of UUTH’s Medical Advisory Committee, and other hospital staff was “unlawful, unethical and capable of worsening fear among healthcare workers nationwide.”

The association also accused EFCC personnel of disrupting medical services at UUTH during an operation that was reportedly linked to a claim that the hospital had issued a fake medical report.

“NMA Lagos State branch condemns in strong terms the illegal and unethical disruption of medical services to patients at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital,” Saheed said.

He added that the incident has caused anxiety among doctors, who now feel unsafe performing their duties even in public hospitals.

“The actions of the EFCC have brought tension, agitation and fear among Nigerian doctors. If this could happen in a public teaching hospital, one can only imagine what could happen in smaller health facilities,” he stated.

Saheed said the event reflects a growing pattern of harassment against medical practitioners in the country.

He recalled that the Lagos branch had previously intervened in a similar situation involving a Lagos-based doctor who was invited by the Enugu EFCC office over a patient’s petition.

“NMA Lagos, through its lawyer, challenged the jurisdiction of the Enugu EFCC office in court, and that intervention prevented the arrest and possible assault of our member,” he said.

The Lagos NMA warned that it may have no choice but to join the indefinite strike already underway in Akwa Ibom if the matter is not resolved by next week.

Among its demands, the association called for a public apology from EFCC leadership to Prof. Ekpe, the affected staff, UUTH management, NMA Akwa Ibom and all Nigerian doctors.

The association also demanded the establishment of an independent investigative panel to probe the incident and ensure disciplinary action against any officers found culpable.

“Doctors should be allowed to carry out their duties without intimidation. The constitutionally recognised regulatory body for medical practice, the MDCN, should be allowed to perform its statutory responsibilities,” Saheed concluded.

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