The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has launched an investigation into allegations that its operatives assaulted medical workers during an operation at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital in Akwa Ibom State.
The incident, which happened on Tuesday, sparked nationwide outrage after videos surfaced online showing panic within the hospital premises as workers, patients and visitors reportedly fled for safety.
According to reports, EFCC operatives visited the hospital to verify a medical report linked to a suspect facing trial before a Federal High Court in Uyo.
Tension reportedly escalated after some hospital workers resisted the operation, leading to chaos within the facility.
Eyewitnesses alleged that operatives fired tear gas and warning shots while attempting to disperse workers gathered at the scene.
Four hospital staff members, including Prof. Effiong Ekpe, were reportedly arrested during the incident.
The development triggered an indefinite strike by health workers, while the Akwa Ibom chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association threatened legal action against the anti-graft agency.
Reacting to the incident, former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, condemned the operation, describing the use of tear gas within a hospital as disturbing and reckless.
Several lawyers and civil society organisations also criticised the operation, calling for professionalism and reforms in EFCC operations.
However, the EFCC defended its actions, insisting the visit was purely administrative and not a tactical raid.
The commission later announced that it had opened an internal investigation into allegations of brutality and promised sanctions if any operative was found to have violated operational procedures.
“The May 12 incident was an aberration,” the agency stated.
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