NPP’s Paul Yandoh Condemns EOCO’s Handling of Wontumi Case, Alleges Political Witch-Hunt

The Ashanti Regional Communications Director of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Kwabena Yandoh, has criticized what he describes as politically motivated actions by state investigative agencies in the ongoing case involving Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

In a statement addressing the growing controversy, on Lawson TV/Radio Ghana Se Sen Show, Mr. Yandoh revealed that Wontumi is currently required to report to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) every three days in Accra as part of ongoing investigations.

Yandoh said the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) had earlier sent a letter inviting the Chairman for questioning, which he honored.

However, he described a dramatic and aggressive turn of events when national security operatives allegedly stormed Wontumi’s residence in what he termed a “dangerous” and heavily armed operation to apprehend him.

“He was arrested in Rambo style by EOCO officials who were masked,” Yandoh claimed. “Even though the law says if the state insists on arrest, they must release the person within 48 hours, Chairman Wontumi was held beyond that.”

The NPP spokesperson further criticized the bail conditions imposed on Wontumi, stating that only landed property located in Accra was acceptable, and Wontumi himself was barred from standing surety.

“Bryan Acheampong had to step in to meet the bail conditions,” Yandoh added.

He also raised concerns over the GH₵50 million bail amount, calling it excessive and unjustified.

“Our MPs were even ready to pledge their four-year salaries to meet the condition, but this was not accepted,” he stated.

The root of the case, Yandoh explained, relates to a GH₵7 million loan Wontumi reportedly secured from EXIM Bank to support an agricultural venture.

According to Yandoh, the farm project was devastated by flooding, and EXIM Bank staff, who also managed the farm, were fully aware of the extent of the destruction. He also stated that the farm was insured.

“It is not a crime to take a loan from a bank, and Wontumi did not personally withdraw the funds,” he emphasized. “Why then this persecution?”

He questioned the sudden involvement of EXIM Bank after EOCO claimed to have received a writ of summons from the bank in connection with the case.

“If this is not political, then why treat Chairman Wontumi in this way?” he asked.

Yandoh also dismissed earlier allegations that government or Canadian vehicles had been stolen, challenging anyone in Canada claiming vehicle theft to produce proper documentation.

In a strongly worded conclusion, Yandoh suggested the actions against Wontumi were fueled by “bitterness and hate” from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), warning former President John Mahama to respect legal processes.

“Ghana has not been sold to Mahama to do whatever he wants. He should allow the law to take its course,” Yandoh stated.

The case continues to attract national attention amid growing political tensions, with some NPP members defending their regional chairman and calling for what they term a fair and just legal process.