The arrest and detention of prominent lawyer Martin Kpebu by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) have triggered strong public scrutiny, with IMANI Africa Vice President Kofi Bentil demanding a clear justification for the OSP’s actions.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News on Thursday, December 4, 2025, Mr Bentil cautioned that the OSP must operate strictly within the bounds of its enabling legislation, stressing that the growing uncertainty surrounding the arrest is damaging public confidence in the anti-corruption agency.
He pointed out that the circumstances of Mr Kpebu’s arrest, reportedly over obstruction, remain muddled, with contradictory claims about which security agency effected the arrest.
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According to him, the core concern is the lack of clarity: whether the OSP itself executed the arrest, whether the police or military were involved, and which specific legal provision is being invoked against Mr Kpebu.
“My only worry is that it is not clear what law the OSP is proceeding under to deal with Martin, particularly the way they are dealing with him,” he said, adding that circulating reports of obstruction, interviews granted, or conduct near the OSP premises raise even more questions.
Mr Bentil stressed that as a statutory body created to serve the public, the OSP is not above due process and must demonstrate strict adherence to the law, especially when dealing with a cooperating individual.
“We don’t make laws to establish rules for people to oppress us. The OSP must appreciate that they are a public office and they are subject to the system, not above it,” he stated.
He further argued that the absence of transparency is shaping negative public sentiment, urging the OSP to disclose the legal grounds for its actions.
“The OSP office is a limited office acting with delegated powers from the Attorney General.
They don’t have plenary powers to do whatever they want, however they want it,” he warned.
The episode has also raised constitutional concerns, particularly regarding citizens’ rights during arrest and bail procedures.
Mr Kpebu was reportedly granted bail requiring proof of landed property and one surety, but his whereabouts became unclear after his legal team returned to the OSP office to complete the process.
The unfolding events have intensified calls for the OSP to clarify the legal basis for the arrest and the subsequent actions taken against the outspoken lawyer.
