A former New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary aspirant for Adenta has been arrested by operatives of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) just days after he publicly called on President John Mahama to disband the committee investigating Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
The arrest of Alfred Ababio Kumi, which took place early Friday morning, 23 May, has raised eyebrows, particularly among members of the NPP.
Though the exact grounds for Kumi’s detention remain undisclosed, the incident has sparked widespread concern and criticism within political circles.
Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show, Kumi’s mother, Nana Ama Owusu, described a dramatic scene as security agents stormed their home.
“We saw about eight armed operatives arrive at the residence while he was taking his bath. They said they only wanted to speak with him, but ended up taking him away. The officers broke into the building, damaging doors before gaining access,” she recounted, adding that she was preparing to visit the NIB office to determine her son’s whereabouts.
The arrest has triggered strong reactions from the NPP, including the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, who made an urgent appeal to supporters via social media: “All patriots should rush to Adenta Kumi’s house. Over 20 CID and National Security officers are there to pick him up.”
Kumi, known among his supporters as “Adenta Kumi,” recently submitted a petition to President Mahama on 19 May. In it, he alleged that two members of the five-member committee—chaired by Justice Gabriel Pwamang—had been seen socializing with a lawyer representing one of the petitioners.
He argued that such conduct undermines the impartiality and credibility of the ongoing inquiry.
The committee hearings, which began behind closed doors on 15 May, have already stirred public interest. Kumi’s arrest, so soon after his allegations and petition, is now adding to mounting scrutiny surrounding the entire process.