Enugu NMA demands answers from DSS, police over surgeon arrest

The Enugu State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has strongly condemned the arrest of Emeritus Professor Martin Aghaji, an internationally acclaimed cardiothoracic surgeon. Professor Aghaji was reportedly taken from his residence in Enugu early Friday morning, July 3, 2026.

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The State Officers’ Council resolved to strongly condemn the manner in which Emeritus Professor Martin A.C. Aghaji, an internationally acclaimed cardiothoracic surgeon, renowned academic, distinguished statesman and one of Nigeria’s foremost medical icons, was reportedly taken from his residence.

In a communiqué released Saturday, the NMA stated that the specific reasons for the medical icon's arrest have not been officially communicated by security agencies. The association has initiated extensive engagements with relevant government and security authorities, including the Office of the Security Adviser to the Enugu State Governor, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force. They are working to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The NMA expressed deep concern, emphasizing that while they recognize the constitutional duties of law enforcement agencies, due process and human dignity must be respected. The communiqué jointly signed by the NMA Enugu State Chairman, Dr. Sunday Okafor, and General Secretary, Dr. Chima Edoga, stated, "The State Officers’ Council resolved to strongly condemn the manner in which Emeritus Professor Martin A.C. Aghaji... was reportedly taken from his residence."

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While recognizing the constitutional responsibilities of security agencies, the Council maintains that every citizen deserves to be treated with dignity and in accordance with due process.

The association has also notified its national leadership and is taking steps to protect the constitutional rights of Professor Aghaji. They are committed to securing his immediate release or ensuring his rights are fully protected, including access to family, legal representation, and necessary medical care. The NMA plans to convene an emergency general meeting for its members to discuss the matter and determine further action.

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We will continue engaging all relevant authorities with a view to securing the immediate release of Professor Aghaji or ensuring that his constitutional rights are fully protected, including access to his family, legal representation and necessary medical care where applicable.