Bekwai legislator and lawyer Ralph Poku-Adusei has been appointed to lead the defence of former National Service Authority (NSA) Director-General Osei-Assibey Antwi, who is standing trial for allegedly causing financial loss to the state.
The switch was documented in a notice of change of solicitor lodged at the High Court on February 23, 2026, by Trent Legal Amansie Chambers under Poku-Adusei’s signature as head of chambers.
It was copied to the previous legal team, the Attorney General, and the National Intelligence Bureau.
Poku-Adusei has a reputation for handling notable criminal prosecutions and defences, including the case linked to the late Bennet Agyekum Adomah’s family and Kikibees Restaurant, Republic v. Bishop Daniel Obinim, the Blessing Adeleke extradition, and several others.
His prosecutorial background and ability to foster cooperation across sides are seen as assets in this matter.
Accompanied by six lawyers from his firm, Poku-Adusei appeared for the accused on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
The prosecution planned to file an updated charge sheet, raising the total from 14 to 19 counts.
The presiding judge, Justice Kizita Naa Koowa Quarshie, was unavailable owing to ill health.
In comments to the press, Poku-Adusei noted the revised alleged loss figure of GH¢530,905,945.20, down from GH¢631,629,744.00 in the prior version.
He indicated that establishing the required elements of the charges would be demanding for the state, considering the brief facts, but stressed that his side was fully equipped to secure an acquittal and discharge for their client.
The case was put off to Monday, March 9, 2026, after discussions involving all parties at Criminal Court 5.