CMD Apologizes to Akwa Ibom Assembly for Blocking Oversight Visit...Lawmakers Warn MDAs Against Obstructing Legislative Duties

By Asuquo Edem

The Chief Medical Superintendent (CMD) of General Hospital, Ikpe Ikot Nkon, Dr. Ekemini Ukut, has tendered a formal apology to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Health for denying lawmakers access to the hospital during an oversight visit last month.

Dr. Ukut, who appeared before the committee in Uyo on Monday, described the September 16 incident as a “misunderstanding of protocol” and said it was never his intention to disrespect the legislature.

“I deeply regret the impression created by my actions. It was never my intention to undermine the House Committee. My request to inform my superior was purely out of respect for due process, but it was unfortunately misunderstood,” he stated.

The CMD reaffirmed his respect for the Legislature and pledged full cooperation with the committee in subsequent engagements.

The apology came after lawmakers, led by Hon. Moses Essien (Ibiono Ibom), condemned the incident as an affront to the authority of the House and a violation of Sections 128 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution, which empower the legislature to carry out oversight on all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

At the meeting, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, also apologized on behalf of the Ministry, describing the episode as “embarrassing and regrettable.”

“I did not at any time authorize any health facility to deny access to the House Committee. I take full responsibility for what happened and assure you of greater collaboration going forward,” Dr. John said.

In his remarks, Hon. Essien reiterated that the House of Assembly will not tolerate any attempt by government officials to obstruct its oversight responsibilities, stressing that the legislature plays a critical role in ensuring accountability for public funds.

“The Assembly will not condone any act aimed at frustrating our constitutional mandate. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse,” he warned.

The incident, which occurred during the committee’s routine inspection of secondary health facilities, had earlier drawn public attention after the CMD reportedly prevented the lawmakers from accessing the hospital premises.

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