Miracles’ Arrest, A Pure Act of Intimidation- Justin Kodua

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for the immediate release of its communications strategist, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, following his arrest by officers of the Economic and Organised Crime Office, EOCO at the airport.

According to the party, Aboagye was arrested in an operation involving EOCO officers with the assistance of immigration officials. The NPP alleges that since his arrest, his legal representatives have been denied access to him, his whereabouts have not been disclosed, and no formal charges have been communicated.

In a strongly worded statement, the party’s General Secretary described the incident as an act of political intimidation rather than a legitimate law enforcement action. It argued that Aboagye’s arrest comes at a time when he has been vocal in criticising the government on several national issues, including illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, and after he publicly announced his intention to contest for the position of National Communications Director of the NPP.

The party maintained that the timing of the arrest has raised serious concerns about the motives behind the action, insisting that state security institutions must operate independently and strictly within the confines of the law.

The NPP demanded that EOCO either release Aboagye immediately or formally charge him and arraign him before a court of competent jurisdiction in accordance with the provisions of Ghana’s Constitution. It further called for him to be granted unrestricted access to his lawyers and family members without any further delay, citing constitutional guarantees relating to the rights of persons under arrest.

The party also urged the government to end what it described as a pattern of politically motivated invitations, arrests and detentions allegedly targeting members of the opposition.

According to the statement, state institutions should not be used as instruments for political persecution, stressing that public confidence in Ghana’s democratic institutions depends on their impartiality and adherence to the rule of law.

The NPP appealed to its supporters to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding while the matter is pursued through the appropriate legal channels. It expressed confidence that political intimidation would not deter the party from carrying out its activities or prevent its members from exercising their constitutional rights.

As of the time of publication, EOCO had not publicly responded to the allegations made by the NPP, and the circumstances surrounding Aboagye’s arrest, including the specific reasons for his detention and whether any charges had been filed, had not been officially disclosed.

By: Joyce Owusu
Howedey.com reporter