Police Exonerate Self from EFCC–UUTH Incident in Uyo

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has distanced itself from Tuesday’s incident at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), involving operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

This followed social media reports alleging that police officers invaded the hospital, assaulted medical personnel, and used force during the operation.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Tinfom John, the Command clarified that the operation was solely carried out by EFCC operatives, while police officers were only invited after a distress call from the hospital authorities.

According to the statement, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UUTH had contacted the Commissioner of Police over the presence of armed men within the hospital, whose identities were initially unknown.

“The CMD further informed the CP that he had directed the closure of the hospital gates as a precautionary measure,” the statement said.

It added that the Commissioner of Police immediately deployed officers to the hospital strictly to assess the situation and prevent a breakdown of law and order.

On arrival, police reportedly confirmed that the operatives were EFCC personnel on a lawful assignment and informed the CMD accordingly, advising that the hospital gates be reopened to allow them exit peacefully.

However, the Command alleged that the advice was not complied with, leading to tension within the facility.

The statement further claimed that EFCC operatives were temporarily held within the premises and pelted with stones before forcing their way out of the hospital.

The Police Command emphasized that its personnel did not participate in the operation, nor did they assault hospital staff or use teargas as alleged in viral reports.

It described the claims linking police to the incident as false and misleading, warning that such narratives could incite unnecessary tension and damage public trust.

“The Command remains committed to professionalism, lawful policing, and the protection of lives and property across the State,” it added.

Meanwhile, the EFCC stated that its operatives visited the hospital to verify a medical report submitted by a suspect under remand by Justice M.A. Onyetenu of the Federal High Court, Uyo.

According to the Commission, two letters sent to the hospital dated March 11 and April 20, 2026, requesting authentication of the report were not responded to.

The EFCC said its officials visited the hospital as a last resort but were allegedly confronted by staff who mistook them for armed intruders and raised a false alarm.

It further alleged that hospital gates were locked during the incident, forcing operatives to exit under tense conditions while exercising restraint.

The Commission maintained that its officers acted within lawful duties and did not disrupt hospital operations.