Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Medical Association backs its Akwa Ibom chapter after alleged harassment, assault and detention of doctors by suspected operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Officers Committee, the association describes the incident involving Professor Eyo Ekpe and other medical personnel as disturbing and unacceptable.
The committee, led by NMA President Afekhide Ernest Omoti, says the alleged intimidation of healthcare workers disrupts medical services and threatens the safety of doctors carrying out their professional duties.
“The reported actions of the operatives disrupted medical activities and endangered healthcare workers,” the statement says.
The NMA confirms that consultations with relevant authorities are ongoing to ensure accountability and justice over the incident in Akwa Ibom.
The association also directs its Akwa Ibom branch to continue all lawful actions already initiated following the alleged invasion of the hospital.
In addition, the national body instructs chairmen of all state chapters and the Federal Capital Territory branch to demand the identification and prosecution of security personnel accused of unlawfully harassing doctors while on duty.
The NMA insists such measures should become minimum conditions for resolving similar disputes involving law enforcement agencies and healthcare workers nationwide.
However, the association clarifies that it supports legitimate law enforcement operations carried out professionally and within constitutional limits.
“Security agencies must continue to carry out their constitutional responsibilities professionally, lawfully and with respect for ethical standards and human dignity,” the statement adds.
The statement is signed by the association’s National Publicity Secretary, Olayinka Atilola.
The development deepens tensions between medical workers and security agencies following growing outrage over the controversial EFCC operation at the teaching hospital.
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Otamere Gladness 
Mirian Gom 