Police confirm arrest of ex-presidential aide Obono-Obla, dismiss kidnap claims
The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of former presidential aide, Okoi Ofem Obono-Obla, in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, dismissing reports that he was kidnapped or
- ...NBA fumes over Obla's arrest
The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of former presidential aide, Okoi Ofem Obono-Obla, in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, dismissing reports that he was kidnapped or taken by unknown persons.
Obono-Obla was reportedly arrested on Wednesday at about 12:00 noon along Abuja Park, Ugep, an incident that generated tension in the area amid circulating claims on social media that he had been abducted.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata, the command described the kidnapping allegations as misleading and without a factual basis.
According to the police, the arrest was carried out by operatives in connection with 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.
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The Command stated that the action was taken in accordance with extant laws and in exercise of the constitutional and statutory powers of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate alleged criminal conduct.
Following his arrest, Obono-Obla was taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Calabar, where investigations are ongoing.
The police added that his legal counsel has been notified and is participating in the process, while his relatives are aware of his whereabouts.
The Command further maintained that allegations of kidnapping or involvement of unidentified security outfits during the arrest are false and unfounded.
However, the Calabar branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), through its chairman, Enome Amatey, said the association was aware of the development but had yet to receive official confirmation regarding the agency responsible for the arrest.
Amatey described the situation as unclear and concerning, expressing hope that Obono-Obla’s rights would be respected and that he would be afforded a fair opportunity to defend himself with proper legal representation.
