Former Presidential Aide Arrested in Cross River Over Alleged Certificate Forgery
Police authorities in Cross River State have confirmed the arrest of lawyer and former presidential aide, Okoi Obono-Obla, on allegations of forgery and fraudulent acquisition of admission, professional qualifications, and entry into the legal profession. The arrest, executed on February 19, 2026, has generated significant public attention and debate.
Police Dismiss Kidnapping Claims
The Cross River State Police Command has firmly dismissed social media claims suggesting that Mr. Obono-Obla was abducted. Police spokesperson Eitokpah Sunday stated that the arrest was conducted lawfully by police operatives around midday along Abuja Park in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area.
The arrest followed a formal petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police, alleging offenses related to forgery and obtaining admission or professional qualification through false pretenses. Authorities emphasized that Mr. Obono-Obla's legal counsel has been notified, and his relatives are aware of his whereabouts.
The police command urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could incite panic or undermine peace in the state. They reiterated their commitment to following due process in all investigations and legal proceedings.
Nigerian Bar Association Reacts
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Calabar Branch, has announced it is closely monitoring the situation. Branch Chairperson Enome Amatey confirmed awareness of the arrest but noted the association had not yet received official information regarding which agency conducted the arrest.
"We've heard about his arrest. Unfortunately, we don't know which agency arrested him. The circumstances are hazy," Mr. Amatey stated. He added that the NBA hopes Mr. Obono-Obla's rights will be respected, that he will be given a fair opportunity to defend himself, and that he will have access to proper legal representation.
The NBA stressed its commitment to ensuring due process is followed and that Mr. Obono-Obla is not detained beyond the constitutionally permitted period without proper legal justification.
Past Controversies and Legal Battles
This is not the first time Mr. Obono-Obla has faced legal scrutiny:
- In 2019, his office as chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel on the Recovery of Public Property was sealed amid investigations into alleged abuse of office and certificate irregularities.
- In 2021, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) arraigned him before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja over alleged certificate forgery and N19.9 million fraud. He pleaded not guilty, and the matter proceeded in court.
- ICPC first arrested him in March 2020 after declaring him wanted in October 2019. His challenge against ICPC's powers to investigate certificate forgery was dismissed by the courts in May 2020.
Mr. Obono-Obla previously served as Senior Special Assistant to former President Muhammadu Buhari and chaired the Special Presidential Investigation Panel on the Recovery of Public Property. His arrest has reignited discussions about integrity within Nigeria's legal and political systems.
