UYO, Nigeria — Nigeria’s anti-graft agency has denied claims that its officers brutalised medical staff during a controversial encounter at a university teaching hospital earlier this week.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stated on Friday, seeking to “set the record straight” following widespread public anger over an incident involving its operatives at the Uyo University Teaching Hospital (UUTH) on Tuesday, 12 May.
Hospital workers had alleged that they were assaulted and intimidated when armed operatives entered the medical facility.
‘Administrative, Not an Arrest’
According to the EFCC, the presence of its operatives from the Uyo Zonal Directorate at the hospital was purely for an administrative task to verify a document, rather than a tactical raid.
The commission firmly rejected reports that any health workers were taken into custody. “Contrary to the information making the rounds, no arrests were made and the staff of the hospital that followed our operatives to the Zonal Command were not detained,” the agency stated.
Internal Probe Ordered
Addressing the allegations of physical assault that sparked protests and media briefings by hospital staff, the EFCC stated it was “outraged” by the claims but noted a lack of visible proof.
However, the agency promised strict disciplinary action if any misconduct is uncovered:
- No Physical Evidence: The commission noted it has not yet seen physical evidence of bodily harm or injury on the accusers.
- Full Investigation: An internal inquiry has been launched into the conduct of the operatives involved.
- Accountability: The agency warned that any officer found to have breached standard operating procedures “will not be spared.”
A Warning Against ‘Fifth Columnists’
The confrontation threatened to disrupt medical services in the state capital, prompting interventions from various professional bodies and local stakeholders seeking an amicable resolution.
Reassuring the medical community that the incident was an “aberration,” the EFCC urged the public not to allow the situation to be hijacked by “fifth columnists” looking to undermine its broader anti-corruption mandate.
The agency maintained that it would continue to pursue its investigations while respecting the fundamental human rights of all citizens.
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