The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has said it will intervene in the arrest and detention of former presidential aide and lawyer, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, following growing concerns over the circumstances surrounding his apprehension.
Residents and relatives in Ijiman community, Yakurr Local
Government Area of Cross River State, where Obono-Obla is a traditional ruler,
said unidentified men stormed his residence early Thursday and whisked him
away.
Witnesses said they could not confirm whether the men were
kidnappers or operatives of any recognised law enforcement agency.
The development has triggered anxiety within the community,
with many residents, especially youths in nearby Ugep, demanding clarification
on his whereabouts and the reasons for his arrest.
The uncertainty has fueled widespread speculation and
tension.
Chairman of the NBA, Calabar Branch, Enome J. Amatey, Esq.,
said the association was aware of the incident but had yet to receive official
information on the agency responsible for the arrest.
He described the situation as unclear and concerning. “We’ve
heard about his arrest. Unfortunately, we don’t know which agency arrested him.
The circumstances are hazy,”
Amatey told DAILY POST. “We hope his rights will be
respected, that he will be given a fair opportunity to defend himself and
access to proper legal representation.”
He stressed that the association would ensure that due
process is followed and that Obono-Obla is not detained beyond the
constitutionally permitted period without proper legal justification.
Amatey further assured that the NBA would seek a full
briefing on the incident and, if necessary, activate its human rights committee
to take appropriate action.
“We will ascertain which agency arrested him, and if need
be, our human rights committee will wade into the matter,” he said.
Meanwhile, conflicting accounts have emerged over the
identity of those behind the arrest. A social media user, Mr Iwara Michael,
claimed Obono-Obla was arrested by security operatives led by a Deputy
Commissioner of Police.
However, the Police Public Relations Officer in Cross River
State, SP Eitiokpa Sunday Akata, denied knowledge of the operation.
The arrest has heightened concerns among legal
practitioners, community leaders and residents, who are calling for
transparency and official clarification from security authorities.
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