By Emmanuel Bamfo 
Tension flared up at the Accra High Court on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, following a dramatic confrontation between state security and a sitting lawmaker. Officials from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) reportedly attempted to take Manhyia South Member of Parliament, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, into custody.
The public attempt to detain a sitting MP right outside the court premises has sparked strong reactions across Parliament. Lawmakers are questioning the procedure used by investigative bodies when inviting or apprehending elected representatives.
The incident happened after the MP finished representing his client in court and stepped outside to address media reporters. An operative identifying herself as an EOCO officer approached the legislator, demanding he accompany her to the agency’s headquarters.
The MP firmly declined the directive, maintaining that proper constitutional protocols require state agencies to write through the Speaker of Parliament before inviting an MP. A heated exchange followed before the MP entered his vehicle and left the court premises.
Reacting to the chaotic scene, Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor condemned the approach used by the anti-graft agency. He emphasized that such public spectacles destroy Ghana’s international reputation and undermine democratic institutions.
The Chief Whip noted that while accountability remains non-negotiable, state agencies must follow lawful procedures. Bypassing parliamentary protocols to ambush lawmakers in public spaces damages institutional trust and rule of law.
Legal experts and parliamentary leaders insist that enforcement officers must respect statutory privileges guaranteed to public officials. Conducting arrests without proper coordination creates unnecessary public panic and political tension.
The House expects the leadership of EOCO to clarify the circumstances surrounding the encounter. Adhering to constitutional channels will prevent embarrassing confrontations and ensure law enforcement operates professionally across the country.
Also Read: police nab two over murder of senegalese goalkeeper
Source: Ghana News Page