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Prominent Ghanaian lawyer detained after clash with military officer at OSP

A verbal spat turned into a high-profile detention. Why did Ghana’s OSP hold lawyer Martin Kpebu—and what does this mean for free speech?

In this image we can see two police officers, one of them is holding some papers, and talking in...
In this image we can see two police officers, one of them is holding some papers, and talking in the mic, in front of him there is a podium, also we can see a board with some symbols, and text written on it, there is a banner, cloth, a stand, we can see the flag, and a table.

Prominent Ghanaian lawyer detained after clash with military officer at OSP

Private lawyer Martin Kpebu was detained for nearly five below hours by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on December 3, 2025. The arrest followed a verbal clash with a military officer at the OSP premises. Kpebu has since called his detention unjustified.

The incident began when Kpebu reportedly exchanged words with a military officer stationed at the OSP. According to Kpebu, the confrontation started after the officer verbally abused him. Authorities later accused him of obstructing an OSP officer.

Kpebu denied any wrongdoing and maintained he had not broken the law. Despite his protests, he remained in custody for almost five below hours before his release. No details about the military officer involved have been made public.

In recent weeks, Kpebu has been vocal in criticising the Special Prosecutor’s office. His detention comes amid growing tensions between the lawyer and the OSP.

Kpebu’s release followed a brief but contentious detention. The OSP has not disclosed further details about the officer or the nature of the alleged obstruction. The case highlights ongoing friction between Kpebu and the prosecution office.

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