The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has denied allegations that its operatives brutalised staff of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital during an incident that sparked outrage among Nigerians.
The commission, however, disclosed that it had ordered an investigation into the matter, warning that any operative found guilty of misconduct would face sanctions.
In a statement issued on Friday, the EFCC said the presence of its operatives at the hospital on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, was purely for administrative purposes.
According to the commission, the officials were at the hospital to authenticate a document and not to carry out any arrest operation as widely speculated.
The anti-graft agency also dismissed claims that hospital workers were arrested or detained by its operatives.
It stated, “Contrary to the information making the rounds, no arrests were made and the staff of the hospital that followed our operatives to the Zonal Command were not detained.”
The commission described allegations of brutality against medical personnel as disturbing, noting that although no visible evidence of injuries had been presented, it would still investigate the claims thoroughly.
“The Commission as a responsible organisation, has ordered an investigation into the incident. While awaiting the outcome of this inquiry, any staff of the Commission found to have deviated from the Standard Operating Procedure of the Agency, will not be spared,” the statement added.
The EFCC also appealed to the public not to allow the controversy to distract from the fight against corruption in the country.
It acknowledged stakeholders who intervened in the matter and described the incident as an “aberration.”
The commission further reaffirmed its commitment to respecting the rights of Nigerians while carrying out its constitutional responsibilities.
“The EFCC recognises the rights of every Nigerian and will continue to pursue its mandate without distraction or encroachment on the inalienable right of anyone,” the statement said.
