Panic broke out at the Federal Medical Centre in Jabi, Abuja, after tear gas fired by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to disperse supporters and opponents of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai drifted into the hospital grounds affecting vulnerable patients, including pregnant women and children.
According to eyewitnesses, the protest unfolded outside the EFCC headquarters, where large crowds had gathered in support of El-Rufai, who was attending an invitation by the anti-graft agency over alleged corruption linked to his time as governor.
Security forces reportedly discharged tear gas canisters to break up the gathering, but winds carried the fumes toward the nearby medical facility.
Patients, caregivers and visitors at the hospital were seen struggling to breathe, covering their faces with cloths and masks as they tried to find clearer air.
One pregnant woman, speaking during her antenatal visit, said she and others inside the hospital were coughing and had watery eyes as they sought safety from the choking fumes.
She expressed alarm over how close the EFCC headquarters is to a major healthcare facility, warning that such actions pose serious risks to already sick and vulnerable people.
The incident has renewed debate over the use of crowd control measures near sensitive public spaces, especially hospitals treating patients with health conditions that make them particularly susceptible to respiratory irritants.
At the time of the report, the EFCC had not issued an official comment on the matter.
