The Nigerian Medical Association, Edo State Branch, has condemned the alleged assault, brutalisation and arrest of Prof. Eyo Ekpe and other health personnel at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Chairman of the association in Edo State, Dr. Eustace Oseghale, the association described the incident as disturbing, noting that it endangered patients scheduled to receive medical care.

The association expressed concern over what it described as the desecration of the hospital environment, warning that such actions could disrupt critical healthcare services and put lives at risk.

According to Oseghale, the association strongly condemned the reported physical attack on Prof. Eyo Ekpe, whom it described as a distinguished cardiothoracic surgeon, as well as the alleged harassment of doctors and other healthcare workers at the facility.

He noted that the incident came at a time when the country’s healthcare sector was already under pressure due to the migration of medical professionals abroad.

Oseghale said it was unacceptable for healthcare workers, whom he described as key to sustaining healthcare delivery, to face intimidation and assault while carrying out their duties.

The Edo NMA also declared solidarity with the Nigerian Medical Association Akwa Ibom State Branch over the development.

The association called on the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, ensure justice is served and bring those responsible to account.

It further urged authorities to end what it described as harassment and intimidation of healthcare workers, stressing that hospitals should remain safe spaces dedicated to healing and patient care.