A controversy has erupted in Ghana's political landscape after John Boadu, a hopeful for the NPP chairmanship, made a remark that has triggered widespread condemnation. Outside the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) headquarters, Boadu told reporters that it would be 'okay' if detained Manhyia South MP Baffour Awuah died in custody. This statement was made on October 2, 2026, at around 9:30 pm, as Boadu arrived at EOCO alongside former Yendi MP Farouk Aliu Mahama.
Baffour Awuah had voluntarily reported to EOCO to answer questions in an investigation into transactions linked to SIC Life Savings and Loans. The MP's appearance followed an Accra High Court warrant authorising his arrest. His lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, had indicated that his client could end up spending the night at the facility while the investigation continued. This development is part of a saga that has gripped the NPP and the wider public for days.
The incident has turned a financial investigation into a flashpoint within the governing party and Parliament. The case raises questions about how MPs are treated when summoned by anti-corruption agencies and the tone senior party figures use when discussing a sitting legislator's detention. The SIC Life Savings and Loans transactions at the centre of the probe have not been detailed further in available reporting.
Thursday's events were only the latest chapter in a standoff that has unfolded at EOCO's gates over recent days. Three people were arrested for flying drones over EOCO headquarters while Baffour Awuah was being questioned. A security expert warned that unauthorised drone flights near such facilities could carry penalties of up to 30 years in prison.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin had urged EOCO to focus on "kingpins" rather than political opponents, while calling for Baffour Awuah's immediate release. Afenyo-Markin maintained that the Minority was not trying to shield the MP from scrutiny, saying, "No one is above the law, EOCO included." He argued that the agency had disregarded earlier correspondence in which the MP reportedly referred EOCO's invitations to the Clerk of Parliament.
EOCO, the Economic and Organised Crime Office, is a Ghanaian state agency tasked with investigating and prosecuting cases involving financial and economic crimes. Its powers include the ability to arrest and detain suspects as part of ongoing investigations, which is the authority under which Baffour Awuah was brought in following the Accra High Court warrant.
The episode has sparked widespread outrage, with many Ghanaians expressing concern about the tone and content of Boadu's remark. The public is still awaiting further details on the outcome of the interrogation, a court date, or a formal EOCO statement. The case continues to unfold, with Chale News following developments closely.
Key points
- John Boadu's remark has triggered widespread condemnation.
- Baffour Awuah was detained by EOCO as part of an investigation into transactions linked to SIC Life Savings and Loans.
- The incident has turned a financial investigation into a flashpoint within the governing party and Parliament.
