**Bare-faced Arrest: Former Presidential Aide Shares Disturbing Experience** Imagine being a respected traditional ruler and a seasoned lawyer, only to be dragged away by armed operatives in a manner reminiscent of a bygone era. This is the harrowing tale of Okoi Obono-Obla, a former presidential aide who has narrated his ordeal in custody to the public. According to Mr. Obono-Obla, he was on his way to visit a relative in Ugep, Cross River State, when he was arrested on 19 February 2026. The manner of his arrest is a subject of controversy, with the police saying it was lawful, but Mr. Obono-Obla describing it as 'Gestapo-like'. He was stopped by five vehicles, including those with police markings, and was forced into one of them without being told the reason for his arrest. As he was handcuffed and taken away, Mr. Obono-Obla claimed that the operatives refused to allow him to use the restroom, forcing him to hold himself for the entire three-hour journey. This is a clear case of rights violations, and one can only imagine the discomfort and pain he must have endured. The arrest of Mr. Obono-Obla has sparked a fresh controversy, with many questioning the actions of the police. The police had earlier maintained that he was lawfully arrested following a petition alleging forgery and fraudulent entry into the legal profession. However, Mr. Obono-Obla claims that he was never invited by the police before the arrest and that the operation was unlawful. The case has also brought to the fore the issue of due process and the handling of cases by the police. Mr. Obono-Obla claimed that a High Court had earlier ordered that no similar charge be filed against him without leave of court, following an earlier case in which the police withdrew the charge and the court dismissed it. As the case continues to unfold, Nigerians are left wondering about the actions of the police and the implications for the rule of law in our country. While the police maintain that the arrest was lawful, Mr. Obono-Obla's account paints a different picture. One thing is certain, however - the rights of every citizen, including traditional rulers and lawyers, must be respected and protected. The arrest of Mr. Obono-Obla is a reminder that we still have a long way to go in upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law in Nigeria. As we continue