Ako Gunn Slams OSP Over Matin Kpebu Detention
By: Nana Kwasi Roka
Godwin Ako Gunn, Deputy National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has strongly criticised the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) over the recent detention of private legal practitioner, Lawyer Martin Kpebu, describing the incident as “desperate, unfair and potentially motivated by personal vendetta”. His comments add to the growing chorus of concern from sections of the legal and political community over the conduct of the OSP in the matter.
In a statement dated December 4, 2025, Ako Gunn questioned the circumstances under which Mr Kpebu was allegedly invited to the OSP’s premises but later subjected to what he termed disrespectful treatment by junior officers, despite not being the subject of any formal investigation. Meanwhile, the OSP has countered this account, insisting that Mr Kpebu’s behaviour at the premises amounted to obstruction of its officers, thereby justifying its actions.
“How can you invite a person to your premises and allow junior officers to disrespect and manhandle him when he is not a subject of any investigation?” he asked, describing the situation as a “low point” for the OSP under the leadership of Kissi Agyebeng. The OSP, however, maintains that the officers involved were not junior but senior-ranking personnel carrying out their lawful duties.
According to Ako Gunn, the reported incident has changed his personal position on calls for Mr Agyebeng’s removal, stating that the latest development “has broken the camel’s back.” He said, Lawyer Kpebu’s claims that he had about 15 allegations against the OSP should have been met with fairness, not intimidation. This position has found support among some lawmakers, including Madina MP Francis Xavier Sosu, who has described the detention as unacceptable and is calling for the OSP to answer questions before Parliament.
“Fairness will mean he tabling it for your response. Why should there be fears? How does this make someone restless?” he wrote, suggesting that the actions of the OSP may be interpreted as intolerance toward criticism. Civil society voices have also raised concerns, warning that such actions could create fear among whistleblowers and discourage citizens from speaking up against alleged wrongdoing.
While criticising the origins of the Office of the Special Prosecutor under the previous NPP administration, which he described as “negative,” Ako Gunn maintained that he personally believed in probity, accountability and social justice, and had hoped the office could be used as a genuine tool to fight corruption. He stressed that anti-corruption institutions must operate above personal emotions and political inclinations.
He further referenced President John Dramani Mahama’s visible concern during recent Public Accounts Committee sittings as a sign of the seriousness with which corruption issues should be handled in the country, adding that Ghanaians expect transparency, restraint and professionalism from those mandated to protect the public interest.
“For the OSP to use its office to settle personal scores with Matin, nothing less than an apology will get me satisfied,” he stressed, adding that Ghana must rise above petty institutional abuse and remain focused on national progress.
“We have come a long way as a people… We shouldn’t waste time on such pettiness. Let’s keep hope alive. There are better days ahead,” the statement concluded.
