EFCC Initiates Probe, Requests Apology Following Uyo Hospital ‘Invasion

According to reports, the incident drew strong condemnation from the Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Nigeria (ACTSON), which described the alleged conduct as deeply troubling and detrimental to the integrity of healthcare institutions across the country.

In a statement signed by the association’s President, Abubakar Umar, and General Secretary, Salisu Ismail, ACTSON said the operation triggered panic and disorder within the hospital, disrupting essential medical services and creating anxiety among staff and patients.

The association noted that Prof. Ekpe was instrumental in establishing the Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit at the teaching hospital, where he has provided critical lifesaving procedures to residents of Akwa Ibom State and surrounding states.

ACTSON further described the treatment of the senior surgeon and administrator as degrading and unacceptable, stressing that hospitals are highly sensitive environments where operations must be conducted with utmost professionalism and respect for established institutional procedures.

While affirming support for the lawful duties of security and anti-corruption agencies, the group insisted that such responsibilities should be carried out with civility, due process and consideration for the dignity of healthcare professionals.

Responding to the controversy in a statement shared on Monday, Olukoyede expressed regret over the incident and acknowledged the concerns raised by the medical community and the general public.

He stated that the welfare of Nigerians remains central to the EFCC’s mandate and apologised for the distress and inconvenience caused to hospital workers and members of the public.

The EFCC chairman also announced that a comprehensive investigation had been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the operation. He warned that any officer found to have violated the commission’s code of professional conduct would face internal disciplinary action.

Olukoyede assured stakeholders that the commission would collaborate with relevant institutions to ensure similar incidents do not occur in the future, while reaffirming the EFCC’s commitment to combating economic and financial crimes across the country.