ABUJA — The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised an alarm over a violent confrontation at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), alleging that its operatives were attacked and held hostage within the facility. The incident occurred during an official visit by the anti-graft agency to verify a suspicious medical report linked to a high-profile fraud case involving multiple microfinance banks in Akwa Ibom State.

The Root of the Standoff: A Disputed Medical Report

The confrontation stems from an ongoing investigation into a suspect currently on remand by order of Justice M.A. Onyetunu of the Federal High Court in Uyo. The suspect is standing trial for allegedly defrauding several financial institutions, including the University of Uyo Microfinance Bank.

To secure bail or medical leave, the suspect presented a medical report purportedly issued by UUTH. Seeking to authenticate the document, the EFCC claims it sent formal letters to the hospital management on March 11 and April 20, 2026. After receiving no response to these written requests or a follow-up visit by an investigating officer, the agency deployed a team to the Chief Medical Director's (CMD) office on Tuesday as a "last resort."

Allegations of Hostility and Obstruction

According to a statement by Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, the routine enquiry turned chaotic when staff members allegedly obstructed the officers. The Commission claims that a false alarm was raised, leading to an unprovoked attack by "misguided" hospital personnel who reportedly pelted the operatives with stones and other dangerous objects.

The situation escalated when the CMD reportedly ordered the hospital gates to be locked, effectively trapping the federal agents inside. Even after the Akwa Ibom State Police Command intervened and advised the CMD to open the gates to allow a peaceful exit, the hospital management reportedly refused to comply initially.

Despite being trapped and under physical assault, the EFCC stated that its operatives exercised extreme restraint to avoid disrupting medical services or endangering patients. The team eventually managed to exit the premises without further violence.

Legal Warning to Public Institutions

Following the incident, the EFCC issued a stern warning to public and corporate organizations regarding the obstruction of its lawful duties. The agency reminded the public that cooperating with the Commission during a criminal investigation is not optional but a legal obligation.

"Enquiries bordering on operational engagements of the Commission are lawful," Oyewale emphasized. "It is therefore necessary to remind the public and corporate bodies that they are obligated to cooperate. Contrary action could be deemed as obstruction, which is criminal with attendant legal consequences."

The University of Uyo Teaching Hospital management has yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations or the reasons behind the failure to respond to the initial authentication requests.