Manhyia South MP declines EOCO invitations, leading to attempted courthouse arrest

Ghana's anti-graft agency, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), has broken its silence on a dramatic incident at the Accra High Court on 23 September 2026, when officers attempted to arrest Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South. In a formal statement, EOCO clarified that the attempted arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into matters requiring the MP's cooperation.

According to EOCO's Head of Corporation Affairs, the MP had been formally invited on two separate occasions in February 2026 to assist investigators, but declined to honour those invitations. This failure to appear prompted the agency to take what it describes as lawful enforcement action in accordance with legal procedures.

What happened at the court

The attempted arrest unfolded in a tense scene at the court forecourt, where EOCO officers confronted the MP. However, the situation escalated quickly, forcing officers to reassess their approach. EOCO stated that continuing the arrest would have jeopardised public safety given the circumstances on the ground. As a result, the officers did not complete the arrest, and the MP subsequently moved to Parliament's precincts, seeking what EOCO characterised as sanctuary, despite Parliament being in recess at the time.

EOCO has also identified two individuals captured in social media video footage who allegedly intervened to help facilitate the MP's escape. The agency said it is assessing the conduct of these persons and will pursue appropriate lawful action against them if warranted.

Why it matters for Ghana

This incident touches on a fundamental tension in Ghana's constitutional framework: the balance between parliamentary privilege and the reach of law enforcement. EOCO has been explicit that membership of Parliament does not place anyone above the law or automatically shield them from investigation. However, the agency also acknowledged that it respects the constitutional privileges and immunities afforded to MPs, and will not act in ways that violate those protections.

The case underscores ongoing questions about how Ghana's institutions handle allegations involving sitting lawmakers. Parliamentary privilege is an essential safeguard against executive overreach, yet it must not become a shield for misconduct. EOCO's measured response—clarifying its legal authority whilst emphasising respect for constitutional protections—reflects the delicate institutional balance Ghana must maintain.

The investigation remains active, and EOCO stated it will review all available evidence, including video material circulating on social media, to determine next steps. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to discharging its statutory mandate whilst respecting the rule of law and institutional privileges.