The Sunyani East Constituency Communications Officer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Abubakar Yakubu—popularly known as Baba Amando—has been arrested by police in circumstances that have triggered political controversy and heated reactions from the opposition party.
Mr. Yakubu was arrested on Sunday, April 12, after he and his lawyer, former Deputy Attorney-General, Alfred Tuah Yeboah, reported to the Bono Regional Police Headquarters at about 10:00 a.m. in response to what they say was an official invitation.
However, upon arrival, they were reportedly informed by officers that no such invitation was on record at the command, despite earlier communication instructing him to report.
Following the development, the NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, condemned the arrest, describing it as “unwarranted and troubling” and raising concerns about due process and fairness.
According to the party, further engagement with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters in Accra revealed that Mr. Yakubu was actually required there, and not in the Bono Region. The party alleges that the CID in Accra subsequently directed his arrest and transfer to the capital, where he is currently being held.
The NPP claims the incident reflects a growing trend of intimidation against dissenting voices and has questioned the neutrality of state security agencies under the administration of John Dramani Mahama.
The party also linked the incident to broader national tensions, citing concerns over free speech, governance challenges, rising living costs, and ongoing political debates in the country.
Authorities have not yet issued a detailed public statement clarifying the discrepancies surrounding the initial invitation or the grounds for the arrest.
The NPP has called for transparency, due process, and respect for the constitutional rights of the accused as investigations continue.
