The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has provided a detailed account of the events that led to the arrest of private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu on Wednesday at its premises, insisting the action had nothing to do with any ongoing investigations involving the lawyer.
According to the OSP, Mr. Kpebu was arrested for misconduct towards security personnel, a pattern the office says has repeated itself in previous visits.
Speaking on the matter, Director of Strategy, Communication, and Research at the OSP, Sammy Darko, stressed that the arrest was unrelated to allegations Mr. Kpebu has levelled against Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.
“This incident has absolutely nothing to do with any petition or matter before the OSP involving Mr. Kpebu,” Mr. Darko clarified.
OSP officials say Mr. Kpebu arrived at the office and initially parked near the main entrance to speak to the media, despite several reminders that the area must be kept clear for security reasons.
After being cautioned, he reportedly moved to a nearby food vendor’s spot to continue the interview.
Upon entering the OSP compound later, security personnel reminded him of the strict no-photography and no-videography policy within the premises. This reminder, according to the OSP, provoked an angry reaction from the lawyer.
Security officers allege that Mr. Kpebu insulted them, questioned their authority, and threatened to have them reported. He is said to have described the officers as “nobodies” and boasted that even their superior “would soon be removed.”
Following the altercation and a formal warning, Mr. Kpebu was arrested for obstructing personnel in the lawful execution of their duties.
The OSP maintains that the arrest was carried out peacefully, without any use of force, and that there is no record of assault or mistreatment.
Mr. Kpebu was subsequently granted bail under standard administrative procedures, with conditions clearly explained to him and his lawyers.
However, one of his lawyers reportedly refused to leave the premises and allegedly insulted officers while demanding that Mr. Kpebu be brought back immediately. The lawyer was eventually escorted out without incident.
The OSP has rejected suggestions that it “fell into a trap” or acted improperly, describing the arrest as routine enforcement of law and order on its premises.
“Connections, public influence, or media prominence do not place anyone above the law. Similar behaviour at the Police Headquarters or the National Intelligence Bureau would have attracted immediate arrest,” the statement by the Director of Research and Strategy
The office says it remains focused on its mandate and will not be distracted by the incident.