SUNTV Global Channel | National News | July 5, 2026
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Enugu State Branch, has demanded the immediate release or arraignment of renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, Emeritus Professor Martin A.C. Aghaji, following his arrest by security operatives in Enugu State.
According to the association, Professor Aghaji was reportedly taken from his residence in the early hours of Friday, July 3, 2026. Nearly 48 hours after the arrest, the NMA said security agencies had yet to publicly disclose the reasons for his detention.
In an emergency communiqué issued after a meeting of its State Officers’ Council, the association described the manner of the arrest as disturbing and called on authorities to respect the professor’s constitutional rights and ensure due process.
The communiqué, signed by the Enugu NMA Chairman, Dr. Sunday Okafor, and the General Secretary, Dr. Chima Edoga, stated that the association had contacted key security agencies and government officials, including the Enugu State Police Command, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Divisional Police Officer of the Independence Layout Division, and the Office of the State Security Adviser, seeking clarification over the arrest.
Expressing concern over the health and wellbeing of the elderly medical expert, the NMA also demanded that Professor Aghaji be granted immediate access to his family, legal representatives, and necessary medical care while in custody.
The association warned that the development had generated anxiety within the medical community, disclosing that it had informed its National Officers’ Committee and scheduled an Emergency General Meeting of doctors in Enugu State to determine appropriate professional and lawful actions.
While urging its members to remain calm, the NMA said it would continue to monitor the situation closely and pursue all lawful means to ensure justice is served.
As of the time of this report, the Enugu State Police Command had not issued an official statement explaining the circumstances surrounding Professor Aghaji’s arrest.
