Peter Obi Condemns Arrest of Professor Martin Aghaji, Demands Respect for Rule of Law

Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Ruth .J

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the arrest and subsequent release of renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Emeritus Professor Martin Aghaji, describing the incident as a disturbing example of the humiliation and disregard for the rule of law faced by many Nigerians.

In a statement issued on Saturday, July 11, 2026, Obi reacted to the arrest of the 74-year-old medical expert, who was reportedly apprehended at his residence in Independent Layout, Enugu State, in the early hours of July 3, 2026, before being taken to Lagos. Obi said Professor Aghaji, an internationally respected surgeon, academic and elder statesman, deserved to be treated with dignity, noting that he was later informed by authorities that his arrest was a mistake. 

Obi criticised what he described as the humiliating manner in which security operatives reportedly entered the professor's home at about 2 a.m. in the presence of his visiting daughter, arguing that no Nigerian, regardless of profession or status, should be subjected to such treatment without due process.

He warned that incidents involving respected professionals could worsen Nigeria's growing brain drain, particularly in the healthcare sector, and further weaken public confidence in state institutions. According to Obi, the treatment of professionals and ordinary citizens alike must reflect respect for constitutional rights and human dignity.

Drawing comparisons with previous cases involving medical practitioners, Obi recalled that a similar incident in Akwa Ibom State prompted strong reactions from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) before a public apology was eventually issued. He stressed that the continued mistreatment of professionals by security agencies undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust.

The Enugu State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association had earlier condemned Professor Aghaji's arrest, demanding explanations from security agencies and insisting that every citizen deserves to be treated with dignity and in accordance with due process. The association also engaged relevant authorities and sought to ensure that the professor's constitutional rights were protected. 

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services (DSS) confirmed that Professor Aghaji was arrested and later granted administrative bail. The agency denied that the arrest was connected to Nnamdi Kanu or his medical report, stating instead that the investigation related to alleged financial transactions involving persons under investigation, while declining to provide further details because inquiries remain ongoing. 

Obi concluded by urging public officials and security agencies to conduct their duties with civility, professionalism and strict adherence to the rule of law, insisting that respect for human dignity remains essential to building a just and democratic Nigeria.