The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has threatened to file a ₦1 billion lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following allegations of assault, harassment, and unlawful detention of medical personnel at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), Akwa Ibom State.

The development follows rising tensions between the medical community and the anti-graft agency over a recent EFCC operation at the hospital, which reportedly involved the arrest of a senior medical consultant and disruption of hospital activities.

The NMA, through its national leadership, condemned the incident, describing it as a violation of the sanctity of healthcare facilities and an unacceptable infringement on the rights and safety of medical professionals while carrying out their duties.

According to the association, the alleged conduct of EFCC operatives during the operation included the forceful handling of doctors and interference with medical services, claims which have further escalated concerns within the healthcare sector.

The association stated that it would not rule out legal action, including a ₦1 billion damages claim, if its demands are not addressed. It also called for accountability over the incident and demanded assurances that such occurrences would not be repeated in healthcare facilities across the country.

The dispute has triggered widespread reactions within the medical community, with many healthcare workers expressing concern over what they describe as increasing vulnerability of medical personnel during law enforcement operations conducted within hospital environments.

In response to the allegations, the EFCC has denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that its operatives acted within the law while carrying out official duties connected to an ongoing investigation. The commission insisted that its officers did not assault medical personnel and followed due process in the course of the operation.

The standoff has heightened calls for clearer operational protocols between security agencies and healthcare institutions, particularly regarding the conduct of investigations in sensitive environments such as hospitals.

Medical stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to intervene and prevent further escalation, warning that continued tensions could affect healthcare delivery in the state and beyond.

Further developments are expected as both parties maintain firm positions on the incident.