RismadarVoice Reporters
May 13, 2026
The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) chapter, has suspended its withdrawal of services and directed members to resume work effective Thursday, May 14, 2026.
The decision followed meetings between the hospital management and union leaders after Monday’s incident involving operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the hospital premises.
In a statement signed by the Secretary of JOHESU, UUTH chapter, Comrade Harry Udo Akpan, the union recalled that EFCC operatives had stormed the hospital in what it described as a “commando-style operation,” during which staff members were allegedly assaulted, manhandled and arrested.
The union further alleged that hospital property was damaged while live cartridges and tear gas were fired within the hospital environment, creating panic among workers and patients.
According to the statement, the Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (DCMAC) and the Chairman of JOHESU, UUTH chapter, Comrade Akanubong Asuquo, were among those allegedly assaulted during the incident.
JOHESU stated that the evacuation of staff and subsequent withdrawal of services were taken in line with the union’s responsibility to safeguard the lives and welfare of its members.
The statement noted that the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital intervened in the matter and facilitated the release of all arrested staff members.
It further disclosed that following an emergency meeting between UUTH management and union representatives, apologies were offered over the incident while the management also pledged to offset financial obligations arising from the development.
According to the union, appeals were also made to the workers to consider the well-being of patients and return to work following the restoration of calm within the hospital.
“After a meeting of JOHESU leaders, it was agreed that work should resume with immediate effect. Consequently, the withdrawal of services order is hereby lifted and work resumes on Thursday, May 14, 2026,” the statement added.
The union appreciated members for their resilience during the incident and assured them of its continued commitment to protecting their welfare and safety.
