The Nigerian Medical Association, Enugu State Branch, has condemned the manner in which Emeritus Professor Martin A.C. Aghaji was reportedly arrested at his residence in the early hours of Friday, July 3, 2026.
The association made its position known in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting of its State Officers’ Council held on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
The communiqué was signed by the Chairman of NMA Enugu State, Rtn. Dr. Sunday Okafor, and the General Secretary, Dr. Chima Edoga.
According to the association, the emergency meeting was convened following reports of the arrest of Prof. Aghaji, whom it described as a distinguished medical elder, internationally acclaimed cardiothoracic surgeon, renowned academic, statesman and one of Nigeria’s foremost medical icons.
The NMA said immediately it received reports from concerned medical elders and members, its leadership began extensive engagements with relevant government and security authorities to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.
It said the engagements included contacts with the Office of the Security Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State, the Nigeria Police Force through the Divisional Police Officer, Independence Layout Division, and the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command.
The association added that it also reached out to the Department of State Services and other relevant stakeholders, while the national leadership of the NMA was equally notified.
“As at the time of issuing this communiqué, the specific reasons for his arrest have not been officially communicated,” the NMA stated.
After deliberations, the State Officers’ Council strongly condemned the manner in which Prof. Aghaji was reportedly taken from his residence.
The association said while it recognised the constitutional responsibilities of security agencies, every citizen must be treated with dignity and in accordance with due process.
The NMA resolved to convene an Emergency General Meeting of all members of the association to fully deliberate on the development and collectively determine appropriate professional and lawful actions.
It also resolved to continue engaging relevant authorities with a view to securing the immediate release of Prof. Aghaji or ensuring that his constitutional rights are fully protected.
The association said such rights include access to his family, legal representation and necessary medical care where applicable.
The NMA Enugu State Branch further resolved to formally notify the National Officers’ Committee of the Nigerian Medical Association and request immediate clarification and coordinated advocacy in the interest of justice and protection of members of the medical profession.
The association assured members that it remained committed to lawful engagement and constructive dialogue while closely monitoring developments.
It urged doctors in the state to remain calm, united and vigilant while awaiting further directives from the association.
“We assure all members that every legitimate effort is being deployed to protect the rights and welfare of our distinguished colleague,” the communiqué added.
The post “Reasons For Prof. Aghaji’s Arrest Not Officially Communicated” — NMA Enugu Condemns Manner Of Arrest, Demands Due Process, Immediate Clarification appeared first on TheNigeriaLawyer.
