By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, former Presidential Aide and head of Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property (SPIP).
According to a statement by ASP Sunday Eitokpah, State’s Police Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Afegbua, on Thursday, Obono-Obla was arrested on 19 February 2026, along Abuja Park, Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area of the state.
There have been reports on social media alleging that Obono-Obla was kidnapped or taken by unknown persons in Ugep.
However, the Police said the former Senior Special Assistant to late President Muhammadu Buhari on Prosecution was lawfully arrested following a petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police.
“The Command states unequivocally that Mr Okono-Obla was lawfully arrested by police operatives on 19th February, 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.
“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.
“Following his arrest, he was conveyed to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Calabar, where investigation is currently ongoing,” the statement read.
The statement added that, “His legal counsel has been duly notified and is fully participating in the process. His relatives are also aware of his current 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.
“Members of the public are urged to refrain from disseminating unverified information capable of inciting public anxiety or undermining the peaceful security atmosphere of the state.
“Further updates will be communicated as investigation progresses.”
