The Cross River State Police Command has refuted claims circulating on social media that former presidential aide, Okoi Ofem Obono-Obla, was kidnapped in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area of the state NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday, described the allegations as “false, unfounded and entirely without factual basis,” clarifying that Obono-Obla was lawfully arrested by police operatives.
According to the Command, the arrest was effected on February 19, 2026, at about 12:00 noon along Abuja Park in Ugep, pursuant to a petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police alleging offences bordering on forgery and obtaining admission or professional qualification into the legal profession by false pretence.
The police stated that the action was taken in line with extant laws and within the constitutional and statutory powers of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate allegations of criminal conduct.
Following his arrest, Obono-Obla was conveyed to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Calabar, where investigations are ongoing.
The Command further disclosed that his legal counsel had been duly notified and is fully participating in the investigative process, while his relatives are aware of his whereabouts.
The police cautioned members of the public against spreading unverified information capable of inciting public anxiety or undermining the security atmosphere in the state, assuring that further updates would be communicated as investigations progress.
