Obi Amba-Ojong, a 33-year-old man, was formally arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Calabar, Cross River State, on charges of allegedly escaping from lawful police custody and willfully destroying a pair of handcuffs belonging to the Nigeria Police Force.
The arraignment took place on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, before Magistrate Mercy Toney, under Charge No. MC/215c/2025. The charges were brought forward by the Legal and Prosecution Department of the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 6 Headquarters, Calabar. The prosecuting counsel, Solomon Awerikure, signed and submitted the charges on behalf of the police.
According to the police report, the incident occurred on May 9, 2025, at Adijinkpor Junction, which is situated near an army checkpoint in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Mr. Amba-Ojong was reportedly in lawful custody at the time for a felonious offense. While under detention, he allegedly broke free from police control, damaging the handcuffs that restrained him during his escape.
The defendant faces a two-count charge. The first count relates to escaping from lawful custody, and the second pertains to the willful destruction of government property—specifically, police-issued handcuffs.
These offenses are classified as criminal under the provisions of Section 135(a) & (b) and Section 451 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap C16, Vol. III, Laws of Cross River State, 2004. If convicted, the accused could face significant penalties, including imprisonment.
During the court proceedings, Magistrate Mercy Toney underscored the gravity of the charges, stressing that acts of escape and destruction of law enforcement equipment undermine the rule of law and pose a threat to public order and safety.
She emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the criminal justice system and holding individuals accountable for attempts to subvert due process.
Following deliberations, the court granted Mr. Amba-Ojong bail in the sum of N500,000. The case was subsequently adjourned to June 11, 2025, for further hearing. The defendant, who is being represented by defense counsel Sunny Mgbe, Esq., is required to appear on the next adjourned date as the trial proceedings continue.
The case has sparked interest among members of the local community, who are closely monitoring developments and awaiting the court’s decision. The prosecution is expected to present material evidence and witnesses to establish the defendant’s culpability, while the defense team is preparing to challenge the allegations, seeking either an acquittal or mitigation of the charges brought against their client.