The Minority Caucus has blasted the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), condemning the arrest and bail conditions imposed on Abdul Hannan Wahab, former CEO of the National Food Buffer Stock Company.
The Caucus says, “Mr Wahab is not a fugitive.”
In a press statement issued on June 29, Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei described EOCO’s actions as political persecution and a blatant abuse of power, warning that “justice must not depend on political colours.”
The 2024 NPP parliamentary candidate for Pusiga and his wife were picked up by EOCO in what the Minority called a “coordinated arrest operation” in both Accra and Tamale on Wednesday, June 25.
“They were picked up as though they were fugitives,” the statement read, insisting that “he is a family man, not a criminal.”
The former CEO is under investigation for alleged tax evasion, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state, but the Minority says these remain unproven allegations.
What has shocked Parliament’s Minority side even more, they say, are the excessive bail conditions imposed.
Mr. Wahab was granted bail of GH¢50 million with two sureties, both of whom must justify their worth in assets. His wife was granted GH¢30 million bail with similar conditions.
“We find this unacceptable,” the Minority declared. “Bail is not supposed to be a punishment or a pre-conviction sentence. These conditions, by all standards, are excessive.”
They cited Section 96 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act and the Supreme Court ruling in Kpebu No. 2 v Attorney-General to argue that bail must be reasonable and take into account a person’s financial capacity.
“What is the justification for bail conditions that amount to financial punishment before trial?” they asked.
“Where in our laws does it say someone must risk bankruptcy just to secure their freedom while under investigation?”
They described the treatment of Mr. Wahab and his wife as “harsh” and “humiliating,” warning that it “sends a worrying signal that people who have served under a past administration will be targeted once power shifts.”
The Minority accused the current NDC administration of weaponising state institutions, saying, “This is not about justice, it is political persecution. It is part of a broader pattern to intimidate perceived political opponents.”
The statement also had stern words for EOCO’s Acting Executive Director.
“We urge Mr. Raymond Archer to act with integrity. How he handles this will define his legacy. Posterity is watching.”
While acknowledging that accountability is essential, the Minority warned against turning legal processes into political tools.
“When institutions are weaponised to settle political scores, we damage the foundations of our democracy.”
They called on civil society, religious leaders, the media, and the general public to speak up.
“Let us demand that our justice system be fair, not fearful… Enough of the political harassment, persecution and intimidation!”
The Minority concluded by demanding “the immediate review of the bail conditions imposed on Mr Wahab and his wife,” insisting that “he must be released on terms that uphold both his dignity and the principles of justice.”
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