By Opeyemi Adelakun
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has condemned the arrest and subsequent release of Professor Martin Aghaji, describing the incident as “disheartening” and a sign of growing disregard for the rule of law and human dignity.
Obi made the remarks in a post on his X account on Saturday while reacting to the treatment of Prof. Martin Aghaji, a 74-year-old cardiothoracic surgeon linked to detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
According to Obi, security operatives allegedly stormed Aghaji’s residence at Independent Layout, Enugu, around 2 a.m. and arrested him in the presence of his visiting daughter without first inviting or contacting him.
He described the professor as an internationally recognised surgeon, respected academic and elder statesman who deserved to be treated with dignity and in accordance with the rule of law.
Obi further alleged that the medical expert was taken from Enugu to Lagos, detained for three days and later released after officials apologised, claiming his arrest was a mistake.
According to the former Anambra State governor, the incident reflects a disturbing pattern of conduct by security agencies that undermines professional integrity and individual dignity.
He warned that the continued mistreatment of respected professionals could accelerate the exodus of skilled workers and further weaken Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Obi also recalled a similar incident involving a medical practitioner in Akwa Ibom State, which prompted the Nigeria Medical Association to consider a nationwide strike before the matter was resolved.
“The practice of treating highly regarded, ethical professionals – and indeed any Nigerian – like common criminals sets a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law across all sectors. Therefore, we must conduct ourselves with civility in the discharge of our public duties. A superior and renewed Nigeria is indeed possible,” Obi said.
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