The Nigerian Medical Association has announced a partial suspension of the industrial action embarked upon following the controversial invasion of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The decision was reached at an Emergency General Meeting of the association held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, where members reviewed developments surrounding the incident and the response of the anti-graft agency.
In a communiqué signed by Chairman, Prof. Aniekan Peter, and Secretary, Dr. Edesiri Ighorodje, the association expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as the EFCC’s reluctance to issue an unreserved written apology and publish it in national newspapers over the hospital raid.
The association also accused the commission of failing to admit wrongdoing and adequately compensate victims affected by the incident.
The NMA, however, commended the intervention efforts of the Akwa Ibom State Government led by Governor Umo Bassey Eno, alongside other stakeholders, for facilitating dialogue aimed at resolving the crisis.
Special recognition was also given to the Honourable Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, Deputy Governor Akon Eyakenyi, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and relevant state commissioners for their roles in the mediation process.
The association further appreciated the support received from the National Officers’ Committee of the NMA led by Ernest Omoti, affiliate medical bodies, the Nigerian Bar Association, civil society groups, the media, and the public.
Congress also lamented the suffering allegedly experienced by patients during the strike period, including reported avoidable deaths linked to disruptions caused by the incident.
Following extensive deliberations, the association resolved that the ongoing strike would continue only at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital and the University of Uyo, while all other health institutions across the state were granted waivers to resume services immediately.
According to the communiqué, the decision was taken on humanitarian grounds and in consideration of the hardship faced by patients across the state.
The NMA warned that if the EFCC fails to meet the association’s earlier demands within two weeks, all exempted centres would be directed to resume full industrial action.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to protecting healthcare workers, preserving the sanctity of medical institutions, and defending professional dignity and patient safety at all times.
