Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, a prominent Nigerian lawyer, former presidential aide, and vocal political figure from Cross River State, was reportedly taken away by unknown uniformed men in his hometown of Ijiman, Ugep, in Yakurr Local Government Area, on February 19, 2026.
The incident, which occurred approximately an hour before initial reports surfaced, has sparked widespread concern and unrest in the community. According to local accounts, Obono-Obla was allegedly lured from his residence by a close friend to a location outside his immediate community, where a team of armed men in uniform ambushed, harassed, and whisked him away to an undisclosed destination.
Community leaders, including Comrade Sunday Ottoh, Chairman of the Ugep Urban Youth, are working urgently to calm agitated youths amid growing pandemonium. Many residents and social media commentators have described the operation as a “Gestapo-style” or “commando” action, carried out without prior invitation or formal notice.
Speculation links the incident to the recent APC ward primaries held in Ijiman. In the days leading up to the exercise, Obono-Obla had publicly criticized what he described as the unconstitutional handpicking of ward executives by external elements, rather than allowing grassroots processes. The primaries’ outcome reportedly did not favor certain political interests, prompting suggestions that today’s events may be retaliatory.
Conflicting narratives have emerged online. Some sources claim Obono-Obla was lawfully arrested by security agencies, with one Facebook user, Iwara Michael, stating that the operation was led by a Deputy Commissioner of Police. Others maintain it resembles an abduction or unlawful detention, fueling demands for immediate disclosure of his whereabouts and the reasons for his removal.
Obono-Obla, a native of Ugep and a longstanding advocate for constitutional adherence and anti-corruption efforts, has been a prominent voice in Cross River politics, including commentary on electoral processes and local governance issues.
Authorities have not yet issued an official statement confirming the operation, the agency involved, or Obono-Obla’s current location and status. Community leaders and youth groups are calling for transparency, civility, and an end to what they term intimidation tactics against prominent figures.
This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.
