By Chioma Obinna
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has secured the release on bail of renowned consultant cardiac surgeon, Prof. (Dr.) Martin Aghaji, after he was arrested and detained by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) over an alleged economic crime.
Aghaji was arrested at his residence in Enugu on Thursday, July 2, 2026, by the Enugu State Command of the DSS and was later transferred to the Lagos State Command of the agency, where he was detained as investigations continued.
Chairman of the NMA Lagos State branch, Dr. Babajide Kehinde Saheed, disclosed that the association intervened after the Director of the DSS Lagos State Command informed him about the arrest.
“I was called by the Director, DSS Lagos State Command, who informed me about the arrest of Prof. Martin Aghaji. I then informed the Chairman, NMA Enugu State, and the national NMA,” Saheed said.
Following the notification, the NMA constituted a delegation to engage with the DSS Lagos Command and ensure appropriate representation for the medical practitioner.
The delegation, acting on behalf of the Prof. (Dr.) Afekhide Omoti-led National Officers Committee (NOC), comprised Prof. (Dr.) Olayinka Atilola, National Publicity Secretary of NMA; Dr. Babajide Saheed, Chairman, NMA Lagos; Dr. Bisoye Akinsulire, Publicity Secretary, NMA Lagos; and Dr. Placid Ajachukwu, representative of NMA Enugu State.
The team visited the DSS Lagos Command on Sunday, July 5, 2026, where the bail process for Prof. Aghaji was completed.
Prof. Martin Aghaji was released on bail yesterday to the NMA team on liberal terms without any pressure. The bail process was perfected by the team,” the NMA stated.
The association, however, said details of the allegations against the surgeon remain confidential because investigations by the security agency are ongoing.
“The details of the alleged economic crime offence and other information remain classified to protect ongoing investigations,” it added.
The release of Prof. Aghaji on bail does not bring the matter to an end, as the DSS is expected to continue its investigation into the allegations.
NMA said it would continue to monitor developments while maintaining engagement with relevant authorities to ensure that due process is followed.
The association also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of medical professionals while recognising the responsibility of security agencies to conduct lawful investigations.
