By Victoria Tom
Arrested Students Union Government (SUG) President of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Ogar Favour Johobe, has declared himself innocent in an alleged involvement in gang initiation activity.
Ogar Favour and ten others were arrested and paraded by the Cross River State Police Command after allegedly engaging in gang initiation at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) on Thursday, October 22, 2026.
In a disclaimer sighted by CrossRiverWatch on Saturday, Ogar Favour, narrated what had transpired, accusing the police of lack of due diligence in investigation and fair hearing before conclusion.
He said for the avoidance of doubt, his visit to the University of Calabar on Thursday was strictly for consultation with a friend who intends to contest for a position in NACRISS Worldwide following the dissolution of the previous administration.
READ: Police Arrest 3 UNICROSS Students, 9 Others Over Suspected Gang Initiation In UNICAL
Ogar noted that his visit had no connection whatsoever with gangsterism, unlawful assembly, or any activity capable of threatening the peace and security of the university community.
He stated that at approximately 11:00AM, shortly after his arrival at UNICAL, he parked his vehicle and proceeded to sit on a nearby cement seat and it was at that point that some security operatives called them over.
“Upon approaching them, we were asked to identify ourselves and state our respective institutions, which we did accordingly. We were subsequently directed to enter their vehicle and taken to the station.
“What is particularly concerning is the publication that followed. At the time the statement was released, I had not been questioned, asked to make a statement, or informed of any findings from an investigation establishing my alleged involvement in cultism. I therefore consider it deeply troubling that information capable of damaging my reputation and portraying me in a criminal light could be made public without first establishing the facts of the matter,” he lamented.
He continued: “Let me state categorically that I am not a cultist. I was not apprehended inside any bush, nor was I aware of or involved in any gathering intended to disrupt the peace, security, or peaceful coexistence of the university community. My presence at UNICAL was for the consultation stated above, and I firmly reject any attempt to associate my person with activities contrary to the law,” he pleaded innocent.
The students leader averred that while he acknowledged the responsibilities of the Nigeria Police Force in maintaining law and order, he respectfully emphasized that public communication on matters involving individuals must be guided by accuracy, fairness, and due process, adding that allegations of such magnitude should not be presented in a manner that prejudges an individual’s character or creates a damaging public impression before the facts have been properly established.
He, however, called on the Cross River State Police Command to urgently review and clarify the publication attributed to the police concerning the incident.
“I further request that any inaccurate or misleading information concerning my person and my institution be formally corrected to prevent further reputational damage.
“Furthermore, I reserve my right to pursue all lawful avenues available to protect my reputation, defend my integrity, and seek appropriate redress should the dissemination of false or unsubstantiated allegations against my person persist.”
The Mechanical Engineering student said as the President of UNICROSS SUG, he understands the responsibility that comes with his office and remains committed to peace, responsible leadership, and the protection of the image and integrity of UNICROSS.
“I will not remain silent in the face of allegations that misrepresent my person or undermine the credibility of the office I occupy.
“This statement is issued to establish the facts as I experienced them, correct the public narrative, and demand fairness in the handling and communication of this matter. I remain committed to peace, the rule of law, and the principles of responsible leadership,” he assured.
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