NBA To Intervene In Arrest Of Former Presidential Aide, Obono-Obla

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 arrest and detention.

Residents and relatives in the Ijiman community, Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, where Obono-Obla hails from and is also serving as a traditional ruler, said unidentified men stormed Obla’s residence early Thursday and whisked him away.

Witnesses told LEADERSHIP that 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 fuelled widespread speculation and tension.

Reacting to the issue, Chairman, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Calabar Branch, Enome Amatey, Esq., averred that the association was aware of the incident but had yet to receive official information on the agency responsible for the arrest and detention.

The NBA chairman stated that the situation was unclear. “We’ve heard about his arrest. Unfortunately, we don’t know which agency arrested him. The circumstances are hazy,”

“We hope his rights will be respected, that he will be given a fair opportunity to defend himself and access to proper legal representation.” Amatey maintained.

The NBA chairman stated 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.