Lawyer for Manhyia South MP, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, Atta Akyea, has described the lawmaker’s detention by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) as a “power play”, arguing that investigators have failed to provide a convincing reason for keeping him in custody.
Speaking on TV3’s Ghana Tonight, Thursday, October 1, 2026, Atta Akyea said he was unable to understand why the MP remained detained after reporting to EOCO to assist with ongoing investigations.
He said the legal team questioned EOCO officials about the basis for the detention but did not receive what he considered a satisfactory explanation.
“They can’t rationalise it themselves because when we came over, we started some interrogation. They couldn’t give any reason because what will be one for them? It is just power play, this is not the rule of law at all, this is just power play,” he said.
“I believe it is an embarrassing power play,” he added.
He questioned whether there was any legitimate basis to keep the MP in custody, particularly given his cooperation with the investigation.
“Is the guy going to interfere with investigations overnight? Is he a flight risk?” he asked.
Atta Akyea said the decision to detain the MP was “counterintuitive” and difficult for him to reconcile with the principles of the rule of law.
“What they have done tonight is very counterintuitive for me and I can’t see how, with the greatest of respect, I will come to terms with what has happened,” he stated.
Baffour Awuah at the time of publishing this story is still in EOCO custody yet to be released on bail.
The detention of Mr Baffaour Awuah followed a search of his office by EOCO officials.
“Items unrelated to EOCO investigations including CCTV footages were seized from Baffour Awuah’s office. Charges preferred against the Manhyia South MP don’t make sense. They may as well charge SIC Life,” he further stated.
Earlier, EOCO urged the general public to allow its officers conduct investigations into allegations leveled against the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, without speculation.
This is contained in a press statement that confirmed the arrest of the legistlator upon surrendering himself to the antigraft agency.
“The Office will continue to pursue all relevant lines of inquiry, examine the available evidence and afford all persons involved their rights under the Constitution and applicable laws.
The public is therefore urged to allow the investigative and judicial processes to proceed without speculation or premature conclusions regarding the culpability of any individual,” EOCO said in the statement dated October 1.
“EOCO further wishes to assure the public that its investigations will progress professionally, independently and in accordance with due process,” the statement added.
EOCO said Mr. Baffour Awuah reported to its Head Office in Accra at approximately 10:00 a.m. to assist with ongoing investigations.
According to EOCO, his appearance follows several months of efforts by the Office to secure his attendance in connection with investigations into alleged criminal conspiracy, financial loss to SIC Savings and Loans, money laundering, tax-related offences and other related matters.
The Office said it has commenced applicable investigative and operational procedures and has placed Mr. Baffour Awuah under arrest. He is currently cooperating with investigators as the process proceeds.
