Disheartening – Peter Obi speaks on arrest of Nnamdi Kanu’s doctor
Peter Obi Condemns Arrest of Professor Martin Aghaji
Peter Obi, presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has expressed strong disapproval of the recent arrest and subsequent release of Professor Martin Aghaji. Describing the event as “disheartening,” Obi criticized the incident as indicative of a growing disregard for the rule of law and human dignity in the country.
Obi shared his concerns in a post on X on Saturday, addressing the treatment of Aghaji, a 74-year-old cardiothoracic surgeon associated with detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu. Security operatives reportedly raided Aghaji’s residence in Enugu around 2 a.m., detaining him in front of his visiting daughter without prior notice.
The former governor of Anambra State highlighted Aghaji’s credentials, noting his status as an internationally recognized surgeon and respected academic. Obi asserted that the medical professional deserved to be treated with dignity, in accordance with the rule of law.
After three days in detention in Lagos, Aghaji was released with an apology, during which officials acknowledged an error in his arrest. Obi remarked that the incident reflects a troubling trend among security agencies that threatens both professional integrity and individual dignity.
He cautioned that such treatment of esteemed professionals could exacerbate the nation’s ongoing brain drain and further undermine its healthcare system. Obi also referenced a related incident involving a medical practitioner in Akwa Ibom State, which nearly prompted a nationwide strike by the Nigeria Medical Association before being resolved with a public apology.
“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,” Obi stated. He urged for civil conduct in public service, emphasizing that a better Nigeria is attainable.
