Okoi Obono-Obla, lawyer and former presidential aide to late former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has been arrested and detained by the Cross River State Police Command over allegations linked to forgery and fraudulent entry into the legal profession.
The command confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Thursday by its spokesperson, ASP Eitokpah Sunday, clarifying that the former aide was apprehended by police operatives in connection with a petition filed before the Commissioner of Police.
“The Cross River State Police Command wishes to address misleading reports circulating on social media alleging that Okoi Ofem Obono-Obla was kidnapped or taken by unknown persons in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area,” the statement read.
“The Command states unequivocally that Mr. Obono-Obla was lawfully arrested by police operatives on February 19, 2026, at about 12:00 noon along Abuja Park, Ugep, pursuant to a petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police alleging offences bordering on forgery and obtaining admission or professional qualification/entry into the legal profession by false pretence,” it added.
Police authorities explained that the action was taken in line with the constitutional and statutory mandate of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate alleged criminal activities. After his arrest, Obono-Obla was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Calabar, where investigations are ongoing.
The command also dismissed online claims suggesting he was abducted by unknown gunmen, describing the reports as inaccurate and misleading. It confirmed that his legal representatives have been informed and are involved in the matter, while his family is aware of his location.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Command categorically states that allegations of kidnapping or involvement of unidentified security outfits are false, unfounded, and entirely without factual basis,” the statement said.
The police urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing panic, assuring that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has indicated its readiness to step into the matter.
The Chairman of the NBA, Calabar Branch, Enome Amatey, said the association is monitoring developments but has yet to receive official details regarding the agency responsible for the arrest.
“We’ve heard about his arrest. Unfortunately, we don’t know which agency arrested him. The circumstances are hazy,” he said.
Amatey said, “We hope his rights will be respected, that he will be given a fair opportunity to defend himself and access to proper legal representation.”
He added that the NBA would ensure compliance with due process and prevent any unlawful detention beyond constitutional limits.
The association, he said, would seek comprehensive clarification on the situation and could involve its human rights committee if necessary.
“We will ascertain which agency arrested him, and if need be, our human rights committee will wade into the matter,” he said.
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