Enugu Doctors Seek Clarity After Top Surgeon Professor Aghaji's Arrest

The Enugu State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has voiced strong disapproval concerning the apprehension of Emeritus Professor Martin Aghaji, a globally recognized cardiothoracic surgeon. Professor Aghaji was reportedly taken into custody from his Enugu residence during the early hours of Friday, July 3, 2026.

Following an urgent meeting of its State Officers’ Council on Saturday, the NMA released a communiqué to journalists in Enugu on Sunday. In the statement, the association highlighted that security agencies have yet to officially provide specific reasons for the renowned medical professional's arrest. The communiqué, endorsed by Dr. Sunday Okafor, the NMA Enugu State Chairman, and Dr. Chima Edoga, the General Secretary, confirmed that the association has initiated extensive discussions with relevant governmental and security bodies to understand the circumstances of the incident.

Among the offices the medical body has engaged with are the Security Adviser to the Enugu State Governor, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force, through the Divisional Police Officer for Independence Layout Division and the Enugu State Commissioner of Police.

While acknowledging the constitutional mandates of law enforcement, the NMA expressed profound worry about the situation, emphasizing that due process and the fundamental dignity of individuals must always be upheld. A section of the communiqué stated: “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.” It further added, “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 also revealed that it has informed its national leadership and is actively working to safeguard the constitutional entitlements of the respected elder statesman. The statement affirmed, “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.”

In light of these developments, the NMA has announced plans to convene an emergency general meeting for all its members. This gathering will serve to deliberate on the matter and decide on the association’s subsequent professional and lawful actions. The NMA leadership urged its members to maintain composure, solidarity, and vigilance, assuring them that all legitimate efforts are being made to guarantee the safety and well-being of the high-profile surgeon.

Contrarily, the Enugu State Police Command has disassociated itself from the arrest. The Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, informed our correspondent, “The Command didn’t make such an arrest, neither do we have the mentioned name in our custody.”