In response to the state government’s involvement, health sector unions in Akwa Ibom State have paused their industrial action.
Recall that the unions went on an indefinite strike that lasted up to a week after certain members, including Prof. Eyo Ekpe of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, UUTH, were allegedly molested and assaulted by members of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, or EFCC.
Pastor Umo Eno, the governor of Akwa Ibom State, called a joint stakeholders’ meeting on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Old EXCO Chambers, Governor’s Office, Uyo, because he was concerned about the development and its potential detrimental effects on sick patients and those who could need access to medical care.
The state government, EFCC, security agencies, UUTH management, the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, JOHESU, NANNM, and other health sector unions were represented at the meeting, which was presided over by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi.
Stakeholders unanimously denounced the altercation, calling it “unfortunate and entirely avoidable,” in a communiqué released at the conclusion of the meeting and made accessible to journalists on Monday.
The Chief Medical Director of UUTH, Prof. Ememabasi Bassey, the assault victim, Prof. Eyo Ekpez, JOHESU Chairman, Mr. Akanubong Asuquo, NMA Chairman, Prof. Aniekan Peter, and the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives all received an apology from the EFCC through its representatives at the meeting for what was described as the disorderly behavior of its employees during the operation at the hospital.
The Commission promised that its headquarters will publish a formal apology and promised that the incident would not happen again.
To prevent the disruption of vital medical services, security and law enforcement officials were encouraged to use caution and adhere to due process while dealing with healthcare facilities.
The discussion emphasized the need to always respect and safeguard the safety of patients, healthcare personnel, and visitors while also reiterating the sacredness of hospitals.
The stakeholders also decided that the government should take an active role in locating the people responsible for the purportedly fraudulent medical report related to the issue and make sure that those found guilty are prosecuted.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare and the EFCC chairman were praised by the Akwa Ibom State Government for forming an inquiry panel and for ordering a probe into the occurrence.
Additionally, the group decided that all parties should abstain from any future media interactions that could escalate tensions or negatively impact ongoing negotiations.
After consulting with their congresses, all health sector unions decided to halt the strike action in the best interests of both industrial unity and public health.
To oversee the execution of the decisions made and stop similar instances from happening again, a liaison committee made up of officials from the state government, UUTH administration, the EFCC, and health sector unions will be established.
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