The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has defended its decision to arrest private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu, insisting that the action was lawful, necessary, and triggered by what the office describes as the lawyer’s “unruly and obstructive behavior” toward security officers on duty.
In a detailed statement released on December 4, 2025, the OSP’s Director of Strategy, Research and Communication, Samuel Appiah Darko, dismissed claims that the arrest was an act of retaliation or connected to previous allegations Kpebu made against the Special Prosecutor.
OSP: This Was Not an Isolated Incident
According to the OSP, Kpebu has a pattern of disrespecting security personnel and misrepresenting events to the public. Darko cited several past instances, including the lawyer’s retracted claim that there were “16 petitions” demanding the removal of the Special Prosecutor.
“It became clear that unless his interactions were recorded, he would consistently misrepresent the facts,” Darko stated.
What Led to the Confrontation
Providing a chronological account, the OSP explained that Kpebu arrived at the Cantonments headquarters on Monday and proceeded—as they claim he often does—to conduct an interview with media personnel just outside the entrance gate.
Security guards instructed him to move away from the gate, after which he relocated near a fried-yam vendor and continued speaking to journalists. Once he entered the compound, officers reminded him of the institution’s no-filming policy.
The OSP says the reminder was met with insults.
According to the statement, Kpebu allegedly told the guards:
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“You’re nobodies,”
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That he could act as he pleased, and
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Even suggested the Special Prosecutor, their superior, was “a nobody” who would soon be removed.
Despite a formal caution, the insults allegedly continued, leading to his arrest for obstructing officers in the performance of their lawful duties.
The OSP emphasised that the arrest was executed “without force” and that there is no internal record indicating that Kpebu was assaulted or mishandled.
OSP Denies Claims of Junior-Level Investigators
Kpebu earlier claimed that investigators handling his matter were of junior rank. The OSP rejected this, stating that officers of ranks equivalent to Deputy Commissioners of Police are leading the inquiry.
Drama After the Arrest
Kpebu was later granted bail, but the OSP claims that one of his lawyers created a disturbance, refusing to leave the premises until her client was brought before her.
“She insulted officers and caused a scene,” the statement said, adding that she was removed gently and without any force.
What Happens Next?
Martin Kpebu is expected to return to the OSP today at 11 a.m. to assist with ongoing investigations into the obstruction charge.
The OSP maintains that its actions were professional, justified, and fully compliant with the law.
source: GhanaWeb
