Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the reported invasion of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

In a statement shared on his verified X account on Thursday, Obi described the alleged use of teargas within a hospital environment as reckless and unacceptable.

Reports had indicated that EFCC operatives stormed the hospital while attempting to arrest Professor Eyo Ekpe, a professor of cardiothoracic surgery and deputy chairman of the hospital’s medical advisory committee.

The operation allegedly caused panic among patients and medical personnel after teargas canisters were reportedly fired within the hospital premises.

Reacting to the incident, Obi said while security agencies have constitutional responsibilities to carry out their duties, the methods employed must remain lawful and humane.

“I have just read the recent troubling reports of how the operatives of the EFCC allegedly stormed the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital in a bid to arrest Professor Eyo Ekpe,” Obi stated.

“This thoughtless act greatly compromised the general safety in the hospital environment and further jeopardised the health of the medical personnel and the sick people in the hospital,” he added.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that no situation justifies the use of teargas in a fragile medical environment, warning that such actions undermine professionalism and public confidence in institutions.

He also expressed concern over the treatment of medical professionals, noting that Nigeria already faces a shortage of cardiothoracic surgeons.

“It is reported that Nigeria has only 80 cardiothoracic surgeons serving its 230 million people, and Prof. Eyo Ekpe is the only one in Akwa Ibom State,” Obi said.

He urged public institutions and government agencies to uphold civility, respect the rule of law, and protect the dignity of citizens in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Peter Obi Condemns EFCC Raid on Uyo Teaching Hospital

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