Police Arrest Okoi Obono-Obla for Alleged Forgery

The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the lawful arrest of Okoi Obono-Obla, a former aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, on January 19, 2026, at 12:00 noon along Abuja Park in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area. The police clarified that the arrest was not related to any kidnapping, as falsely reported on social media.

Instead, it followed allegations of border forgery and obtaining admission to practice as a legal professional under false pretenses. The police emphasized that the arrest was conducted in line with their constitutional statutory powers to investigate criminal allegations.

Following his arrest, Obono-Obla was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Calabar for ongoing investigations. The police also noted that family members were duly informed and participated in the process, stressing that claims of kidnapping involving unidentified security outfits were unfounded and lacked factual basis.