Workers of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) have suspended their strike following an apology from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over its controversial invasion of the hospital.

The industrial action, which disrupted medical services at the Uyo-based federal facility, was called off after the anti-graft agency admitted wrongdoing and expressed regret over the incident that sparked outrage within the health sector.

The crisis began when EFCC operatives reportedly stormed the hospital premises during an operation linked to an investigation involving a patient. The action allegedly caused panic among patients, disrupted clinical activities, and led to the harassment of healthcare workers.

Medical unions, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), condemned the invasion, describing it as a violation of medical ethics and a threat to patient safety.

The groups subsequently embarked on strike action, demanding an apology and assurances against a recurrence. In response, the EFCC acknowledged that its operatives acted in a manner that warranted concern and issued an apology to the hospital management, affected staff, and patients.

The agency also ordered an internal review of the operation, pledging to sanction any personnel found to have breached professional standards. Following the apology and intervention by relevant authorities, stakeholders held a meeting to address the situation and chart a path forward.

The meeting involved representatives of the hospital, union leaders, government officials, and security agencies. After deliberations, the workers agreed to suspend the strike in the interest of public health, allowing the immediate restoration of services at the hospital.

Health authorities welcomed the decision, noting that the resolution would ease the burden on patients who had been affected by the disruption.

They also emphasised the need for improved coordination between security agencies and healthcare institutions to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Normal medical activities are expected to resume fully at UUTH as staff return to duty.