EFCC Apologises As Health Unions Suspend Strike After AKSG Peace Meeting With UUTHThe Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apologised over the controversial altercation involving its operatives and staff of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), a development that led to the suspension of the industrial action earlier declared by health sector unions in Akwa Ibom State. The apology was tendered during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Akwa Ibom State Government at the Government House, Uyo.
The meeting, chaired by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, was held on the directive of Governor Umo Eno and had in attendance representatives of the EFCC, UUTH management, security agencies, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), among other stakeholders. In a communiqué issued after the meeting, participants described the incident as “unfortunate and entirely avoidable.”
Representatives of the EFCC expressed regret over the incident and apologised to the Chief Medical Director of UUTH, Prof. Ememabasi Bassey; the assaulted medical professional -Prof. Eyo Ekpe; Chairman of JOHESU, Mr Akanubong Asuquo; Chairman of the NMA, Prof. Aniekan Peter; and members of the nurses’ union over the conduct of some operatives during the operation at the hospital. The Commission also assured stakeholders that a formal apology would be issued by its headquarters.
The crisis had sparked tension within the health sector after EFCC operatives reportedly stormed the hospital in an operation health workers described as disruptive and capable of endangering patients and medical personnel, prompting healthcare unions to embark on industrial action. Following the intervention meeting, the unions agreed to suspend the strike.
Stakeholders resolved that the EFCC and UUTH management should establish proper communication channels for handling investigations involving the institution, while security agencies were advised to exercise restraint and observe due process in matters concerning healthcare facilities. The meeting also reaffirmed the sanctity of hospitals and the need to protect patients, healthcare workers and visitors at all times.
The communiqué further disclosed that government would participate in investigations into the incident and the alleged fake medical report linked to the matter, while a liaison committee comprising representatives of government, UUTH, EFCC and health unions would monitor implementation of the resolutions reached. The unions also commended Governor Umo Eno for his swift intervention and continued support for the health sector.
