Ashanti Regional NPP Executives Condemn EOCO Over ‘Unlawful’ Detention of Chairman Wontumi; Demand Immediate Intervention
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region has launched a fierce condemnation of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) over what it describes as the unlawful arrest and detention of its Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Addressing journalists at the party’s regional headquarters in Kumasi, the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Secretary, Lawyer Adom Appiah, accused EOCO of acting with malice and disregarding fundamental legal procedures in their handling of Chairman Wontumi’s case.
He recounted how EOCO officials stormed Chairman Wontumi’s private residence at Atasomanso in what he described as an “ambush-style” operation without prior notice or the presentation of a warrant. He alleged that the chairman was taken into custody under circumstances that were not only questionable but humiliating.
The party further claimed that since his arrest, Chairman Wontumi has been denied access to his legal counsel and refused the right to receive medical attention from a facility of his choice. According to Lawyer Appiah, these actions are in direct violation of the rights guaranteed under the 1992 Constitution and represent an attack not only on the chairman but on the very principles of justice and fairness.
Describing the bail conditions imposed — pegged at 50 million Ghana Cedis — as excessive and unreasonable, the NPP leadership believes the move is a clear attempt to suppress and break the will of one of its most influential political leaders.
The party has called on President John Dramani Mahama to intervene and ensure that EOCO and all other state institutions operate within the confines of the law. They also appealed to religious leaders, traditional authorities, the National Peace Council, and civil society to take a keen interest in the matter and speak out against what they say is a clear abuse of power.
Lawyer Appiah stressed that while the NPP does not oppose lawful investigations, it will not tolerate political intimidation disguised as legal process. He warned that if unchecked, EOCO’s conduct could set a dangerous precedent and erode public confidence in Ghana’s democratic institutions.
He urged party supporters across the region to remain calm, law-abiding, and focused, assuring them that the party is exploring every legal means to secure Chairman Wontumi’s release and protect his rights.
Though EOCO has yet to publicly respond to the allegations, sources suggest the arrest is linked to ongoing investigations involving financial dealings related to Wontumi’s private businesses. Still, the NPP remains adamant that the timing and manner of the arrest are politically motivated, aimed at smearing the image of the Ashanti Regional Chairman and weakening the party’s grip in its most critical stronghold.
The incident has stirred growing anger among the party’s grassroots members in the Ashanti Region, with many calling for demonstrations and nationwide solidarity actions. As public scrutiny intensifies, the NPP insists this matter transcends political rivalry and is ultimately about protecting the rule of law and the dignity of all Ghanaians.
The coming days are expected to be critical as pressure mounts on EOCO, the presidency, and relevant state institutions to act with fairness, transparency, and a renewed commitment to justice.
