By Ita Williams, Calabar
The Cross River State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that Mr. Okoi Ofem Obono-Obla was kidnapped or taken by unknown persons in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area of the state.
The Command clarified that the claims are misleading and do not reflect the true circumstances surrounding his arrest.
In a press release issued on Wednesday and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the Command stated unequivocally that Obono-Obla was lawfully arrested by police operatives.
According to the statement, the arrest took place on February 19, 2026, at about 12:00 noon along Abuja Park in Ugep.
The police explained that the arrest followed a petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police. The petition allegedly accused Obono-Obla of offences bordering on forgery and obtaining admission or professional qualification into the legal profession by false pretence.
“The arrest was effected in accordance with extant laws and in the exercise of the constitutional and statutory powers of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate allegations of criminal conduct,” the statement read.
Following his arrest, Obono-Obla was conveyed to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Calabar, where investigations are currently ongoing. The Command emphasized that due process is being strictly observed in handling the matter.
The statement further disclosed that his legal counsel has been duly notified and is fully participating in the investigative process. It also assured that his relatives are aware of his current location, dismissing insinuations of secrecy or unlawful detention.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Command categorically stated that allegations of kidnapping or involvement of unidentified security outfits are false, unfounded, and entirely without factual basis,” ASP Eitokpah said.
He warned against the spread of unverified information capable of inciting public anxiety or undermining the peaceful security atmosphere of the state.
The PPRO urged members of the public to remain calm and allow the investigation to run its course, adding that further updates would be communicated as the process progresses.
The Command reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public trust through transparency and accountability.
