Rivers NBA crisis deepens as police arrest ex-presidential aide Obono-Obla

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed readiness to step in over the arrest and detention of former presidential aide and lawyer, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, amid concerns about the circumstances surrounding his apprehension.

The Cross River State Police Command confirmed that Obono-Obla was arrested on Thursday over allegations related to forgery and the alleged acquisition of admission, professional qualifications, and entry into the legal profession through false representation.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the police spokesperson, Eitokpah Sunday, said Obono-Obla was arrested at about noon on February 19, 2026, along Abuja Park in Ugep, Cross River State.

The police dismissed reports circulating on social media suggesting that Obono-Obla was abducted or taken away by unknown persons in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area. According to the command, the arrest was carried out lawfully by police operatives following a petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police alleging offences bordering on forgery and false pretence in relation to legal practice.

The statement added that the arrest was conducted in line with existing laws and within the constitutional and statutory powers of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate alleged criminal acts.

Following his arrest, Obono-Obla was taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Calabar, where investigations are ongoing. The police noted that his legal counsel had been informed and was actively involved in the process, while members of his family were also aware of his whereabouts.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of the Calabar Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, Enome Amatey, said the association was aware of the incident but had not yet received official details regarding the agency responsible for the arrest.

He described the situation as unclear and worrisome, noting that reports surrounding the arrest were still sketchy.

Amatey said the NBA was concerned about the need to safeguard Obono-Obla’s fundamental rights, stressing that he should be given a fair opportunity to defend himself and have unhindered access to legal representation.

He added that the association would closely monitor the situation to ensure due process was followed and that Obono-Obla was not held beyond the constitutionally allowed period without lawful justification.

According to him, the NBA would seek a detailed briefing on the matter and, if necessary, activate its human rights committee to take appropriate steps.