The Nigerian Medical Association has secured the release on bail of renowned consultant cardiac surgeon, Prof. (Dr.) Martin Aghaji, following his detention by operatives of the Department of State Services over an alleged economic crime.
Aghaji regained his freedom after an NMA delegation completed his bail process at the DSS Lagos State Command, where he had been held after his arrest in Enugu.
The surgeon was arrested at his residence in Enugu on Thursday, July 2, 2026, by the Enugu State Command of the DSS before being transferred to Lagos as investigations into the alleged offence continued.
The association said it stepped into the matter after the Chairman of the NMA Lagos State branch, Dr Babajide Kehinde Saheed, was contacted by the Director of the DSS Lagos State Command.
“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 Prof. (Dr.) Afekhide Omoti-led National Officers Committee constituted a delegation to engage the DSS and facilitate the surgeon’s release.
The delegation comprised the NMA National Publicity Secretary, Prof. (Dr.) Olayinka Atilola; Chairman of the NMA Lagos State branch, Dr Babajide Saheed; the branch’s Publicity Secretary, Dr Bisoye Akinsulire; and the representative of NMA Enugu State, Dr Placid Ajachukwu.
The team visited the DSS Lagos State Command on Sunday, July 5, where the bail process was concluded.
“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 association said.
The NMA noted that details of the alleged economic crime had not been disclosed because investigations were still ongoing.
“The details of the alleged economic crime offence and other information remain classified to protect ongoing investigations,” it said.
The association added that it would continue to monitor the case and engage relevant authorities to ensure due process is followed, while reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of medical professionals and recognising the responsibility of security agencies to conduct lawful investigations.
