Police arrest Rochas Okorocha in Abuja, release him after one-hour interrogation

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha in Abuja and subsequently released him on bail after about one hour of questioning.

Okorocha was arrested on Monday night, October 12, 2026, at the REIZ Continental Hotel in central Abuja.

Force Public Relations Officer CSP Aniete Iniedu confirmed the development, saying the former governor was questioned over allegations involving criminal conspiracy, forgery and impersonation.

The allegations remain under investigation, and no finding of guilt has been made against Okorocha.

Police say Okorocha missed earlier invitations

According to the police, the arrest followed Okorocha’s alleged failure to honour previous invitations connected with the investigation.

He was initially invited to the Force Headquarters on September 2.

That meeting was reportedly rescheduled to September 8 following a request by his lawyers, but police said the former Imo governor did not appear on the rescheduled date.

Following his arrest on Monday, Okorocha was taken for questioning and released on bail after approximately one hour.

Police asked him to return to the Force Headquarters on Tuesday for further interrogation as investigations continue.

Investigation continues

Okorocha served as governor of Imo State between 2011 and 2019 and subsequently represented Imo West Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

The former governor remains active in Nigerian politics.

Police have not announced criminal convictions or a final determination concerning the allegations under investigation.

Further details are expected as investigators continue questioning those connected with the case.