Tension In Uyo: EFCC Officials Stoned During Hospital Operation, Panic Erupts

According to reports, the operatives arrived at the hospital on Tuesday in two saloon cars and a tinted bus, with some officers in masks and others dressed in EFCC-branded jackets.

In a statement issued by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the commission said its officers were at the facility to carry out lawful inquiries relating to a medical report.

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

Footage shared online showed panic within the hospital as patients, staff and visitors fled after tear gas was allegedly used during the operation.

The EFCC explained that the visit was linked to efforts to verify a medical report presented by a suspect currently facing charges of alleged fraud involving multiple microfinance banks, including the University of Uyo Microfinance Bank.

According to the commission, two separate letters had earlier been sent to the hospital management requesting clarification on the report, but no response was received.

The statement further noted that the investigating officer handling the case had previously visited the hospital for additional inquiries.

“As a last resort, operatives of the Commission visited the Chief Medical Director of the hospital on Tuesday to make further enquiries, only to be locked in with a false alarm and subjected to unprovoked attack by misguided staff of the facility who pelted them with stones and other dangerous objects,” the EFCC said.

It added that the hospital management allegedly ordered the closure of the gates, preventing smooth exit and escalation of tension.

The commission also stated that despite the hostile situation, its operatives exercised restraint and eventually exited the premises without disrupting hospital activities.

The EFCC emphasized that its investigative actions are lawful and urged institutions and members of the public to cooperate with its officials during official duties.