This Is Unacceptable!” Peter Obi Blasts EFCC Over Use Of Canisters In Hospital Environment

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the reported disruption at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital during an operation to arrest Professor Eyo Ekpe....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement shared on his page on Thursday and titled “Teargas in a Hospital, a Thoughtless Act,” Obi expressed concern over the conduct of the anti-graft agency’s operatives during the incident.

According to him, while security agencies have constitutional powers to carry out investigations and arrests, such duties must be performed responsibly and with respect for public safety.

Obi described the alleged actions of the EFCC operatives as disorderly and unacceptable, insisting that nothing can justify the use of teargas canisters within a sensitive hospital environment.

He said the reported incident endangered patients, medical workers, and other individuals within the hospital premises.

“I understand and respect the constitutional responsibilities of the EFCC and other government agencies,” Obi stated. “However, the manner in which some of these operations are conducted remains deeply disturbing.”

Referring to reports that teargas was allegedly discharged within the hospital compound, Obi said the action caused panic among patients and health workers, forcing many to flee for safety.

He argued that such conduct undermines safety standards in critical health institutions and further threatens an already fragile healthcare system.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that respect for the rule of law, order, and human dignity remains essential for national development.

According to him, the alleged behaviour displayed during the operation should not be tolerated or normalised in any civil society.

Obi also questioned the message being sent to healthcare professionals when a senior medical expert could allegedly be treated in such a manner inside a hospital environment.

He noted reports indicating that Nigeria has only about 80 cardiothoracic surgeons serving a population of over 230 million people, adding that Professor Eyo Ekpe is reportedly the only specialist in that field within Akwa Ibom State.

Obi concluded by urging public institutions and security agencies to embrace professionalism, civility, and respect for citizens in the discharge of their responsibilities, while condemning what he described as increasing rascality and disorderliness in some public offices.