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 away by unknown persons.
Obono-Obla was reportedly arrested on Wednesday at about 12:00 noon along Abuja Park in Ugep. The incident had generated tension in the area following claims circulated on social media suggesting 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 lacking any factual basis.
According to the police, the former aide was arrested by operatives in connection with a petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police. The petition allegedly borders on offences relating to forgery and obtaining admission or professional qualification into the legal profession by false pretence.
The command maintained that the arrest was carried out in line with due process and urged members of the public to disregard what it termed unfounded reports capable of causing unnecessary panic.
Police authorities further assured residents that Obono-Obla remains in lawful custody while investigations continue, adding that the outcome of the inquiry would determine the next line of action.
