Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has vowed that any officer found to have acted outside professional standards during an incident involving operatives of the commission and staff of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital will face disciplinary action.
The incident reportedly occurred on May 12 when armed operatives of the commission visited the teaching hospital, with allegations that they assaulted the Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Professor Eyo Ekpe, and four other members of staff.
Following a preliminary review of the incident, Olukoyede directed that an official apology be issued to address concerns raised by the medical community and members of the public.
In a statement posted on the commission’s X handle on Monday, the EFCC chairman expressed regret over the development, stating that the conduct of the operatives did not reflect the standards expected of the agency.
“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,” the statement read.
Olukoyede also disclosed that a full investigation into the incident had been ordered, adding that any officer found culpable would face internal disciplinary measures.
“Once the exercise is completed, any officer found to have acted outside the acceptable code of professional conduct would be subjected to the internal disciplinary process,” he said.
The EFCC chairman further assured stakeholders that the commission would collaborate with relevant bodies to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents.
Despite the controversy, Olukoyede maintained that the commission would continue carrying out its mandate of combating economic and financial crimes across the country.
He also appealed to the Nigerian Medical Association and other professional groups to continue supporting the commission’s anti-corruption efforts.