Read GBA’s reaction to EOCO’s attempted arrest of Manhyia South MP

The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has expressed concern over an attempt by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to arrest the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, while he was at the Accra High Court representing a client.

The widely reported incident occurred on September 23, 2026.

In a statement dated Thursday, September 24 2026, the GBA said it had also taken note of videos circulating on social media showing the attempted arrest, including an incident involving another lawyer, Enock Annyere Afoakwa, who complained of being assaulted by a woman later confirmed by EOCO to be its officer.

Resurfaced EOCO letter explains why Manhyia South MP was being investigated

While stressing that no individual is above the law, the GBA said investigations involving lawyers must respect constitutional guarantees, legal procedures and the independence of the legal profession.

“Attempts to circumvent these safeguards create the perception of intimidation and may have a chilling effect on the legal profession as a whole,” the GBA stated.

It further argued that lawyers play an important role in the administration of justice and protection of citizens’ rights, warning that actions that interfere with their professional duties could undermine public confidence in the justice system.

The GBA cited remarks previously made by its President, Efua Ghartey, at the Association’s 2025 annual conference in Wa.

“The Bar must never waver in its role as the voice of the voiceless,” she said, adding that lawyers should be free to defend clients of their choice “without being heckled.”

The Association also referred to an earlier incident involving former GBA Vice President, Justice Minka Premo, and a female lawyer who were reportedly arrested and detained overnight after visiting the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) to defend a client.

According to the GBA, the female lawyer, who was a nursing mother, was separated from her baby and initially unable to feed the child.

The Association has consequently called on EOCO and other state institutions to ensure that their actions comply with due process, fairness and respect for the rights of persons involved.

“The rule of law demands not only that justice be done, but that it be seen to be done,” the GBA stated.

Read statement below





NA/VPO