The Cross River State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that former presidential aide, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, was kidnapped by unknown gunmen.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, clarified that Obono-Obla — who previously served under former President Muhammadu Buhari — was lawfully arrested by police operatives.
According to the police, the arrest took place on January 19, 2026, at about 12:00 noon along Abuja Park in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, following a petition submitted to 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.
The Command states unequivocally that Mr. Obono-Obla was lawfully arrested by police operatives pursuant to a petition alleging offences bordering on forgery and obtaining admission or professional qualification/entry into the legal profession by false pretence,” the statement read.
ASP Eitokpah explained that the arrest was carried out within the constitutional and statutory powers of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate criminal allegations.
Following his arrest, Obono-Obla was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Calabar, where investigations are ongoing. The police added that his legal representatives and family members have been duly informed and are participating in the process.
“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 concluded.
The clarification comes amid heightened public attention over the circumstances surrounding the former aide’s detention.
