Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu was arrested at the premises of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on Wednesday, following what officials describe as a pattern of misconduct toward security personnel at the facility.
According to the Director of Strategy, Communication, and Research at the OSP, Sammy Darko, the arrest was unrelated to the ongoing inquiry into allegations Mr. Kpebu has made against Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.
Instead, officials say the incident stemmed from his conduct at the entrance of the OSP compound—behaviour they described as obstructive, disrespectful, and consistent with previous encounters.
Mr. Darko indicated that this is not the first time Mr. Kpebu has clashed with OSP security officers, adding that he often presents a different version of events to the public after such confrontations.
What Happened at the OSP Entrance
Officials say Mr. Kpebu arrived at the OSP and parked near the entrance to address the media, despite repeated reminders that the area must remain clear. After being cautioned by security personnel, he moved to a nearby food vendor’s spot to continue the interview.
When he later entered the OSP compound, guards reminded him that photography and videography were prohibited within the premises. This, according to the OSP, triggered an angry outburst from Mr. Kpebu.
Security officers say he insulted them, dismissed their authority, and threatened to report them—allegedly telling them they were “nobodies” and that even their superior “would soon be removed.”
Following a formal warning, officers arrested him for obstructing personnel performing their lawful duties. The OSP maintains that the arrest was conducted without force and that no internal report suggests any assault or mistreatment.
Mr. Kpebu was later granted bail under standard administrative procedures, with the conditions explained to him and his legal team. However, one of his lawyers allegedly refused to leave the premises until he was brought back, reportedly insulting officers and creating a scene. OSP officials say she was escorted out without the use of force.
As part of normal processing, Mr. Kpebu was moved to a secure holding area. The OSP insists that all protocols were followed and that he was not denied access to counsel.
The office has rejected claims that it “fell into a trap,” saying the arrest was a straightforward enforcement of the law in response to misconduct on its premises.
“Connections, public influence, or media prominence do not place anyone above the law,” an official said, adding that similar behaviour at the Police Headquarters or the National Intelligence Bureau would likely have resulted in immediate arrest.
