The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has ordered that a formal apology be issued over the confrontation involving EFCC operatives and workers of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital in Cross River State.
The directive followed an initial assessment of the incident that occurred on May 12, 2026, involving personnel of the anti-graft agency, medical staff, the Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Professor Eyo Ekpe, and members of the Nigerian Medical Association.
In a statement posted on X on Monday, the EFCC Chairman said the move was aimed at addressing concerns expressed by the medical community and affected members of the public.
Olukoyede expressed regret over the development, stressing that the conduct displayed during the incident did not reflect the standards expected of the commission.
“While acknowledging that the well-being of Nigerians is at the core of the Commission’s mandate, he expressed regret at the discomfort the unfortunate episode caused staff of the hospital and members of the public,” a statement attributed to him said.
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He also disclosed that a comprehensive investigation had been launched into the matter, warning that any operative found to have breached the agency’s professional code would face disciplinary action.
He stated, “Once the exercise is completed, any officer found to have acted outside of the acceptable code of professional conduct would be subjected to the internal disciplinary process.”
The EFCC Chairman further assured relevant stakeholders that the commission would collaborate with appropriate bodies to ensure similar incidents do not happen again.
Despite the controversy, Olukoyede reiterated that the EFCC would remain focused on its responsibility of combating economic and financial crimes across the country.
He also appealed to the Nigerian Medical Association and other professional groups to continue partnering with the commission in the fight against corruption, noting that such cooperation is vital in promoting accountability and tackling corruption in Nigeria.