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The Enugu State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has condemned the arrest of internationally acclaimed cardiothoracic surgeon, Emeritus Professor Martin Aghaji, and demanded that the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force explain the circumstances surrounding his detention. According to the association, Prof. Aghaji was reportedly arrested at his residence in Enugu in the early hours of July 3, with no official reason communicated to his family or the medical community.
In a communiqué signed by the NMA’s state chairman, Dr. Sunday Okafor, and General Secretary, Dr. Chima Edoga, the association said it had contacted the Office of the Security Adviser to the Enugu State Governor, the DSS, and senior police authorities to seek clarification. While acknowledging the constitutional responsibilities of security agencies, the NMA insisted that every citizen deserves to be treated with dignity and in accordance with due process. The association also said it had informed its national leadership and would continue engaging relevant authorities to secure Prof. Aghaji’s release or ensure that his constitutional rights—including access to his family, legal counsel, and medical care—are protected.
The NMA further announced plans to convene an emergency general meeting to determine its next lawful course of action while urging doctors in the state to remain calm and united. Meanwhile, the Enugu State Police Command has distanced itself from the arrest, and, as of the time of the report, neither the DSS nor any other security agency had publicly disclosed the reason for Prof. Aghaji’s detention.
