Ntim Fordjour’s Arrest, Not By NIB
Story By: Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
Security consultant Richard Kumodore has shed light on the recent controversial operation carried out at the residence of Assin South Member of Parliament, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, stating that the operation was spearheaded by National Security and not the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) as initially reported.
The incident, which unfolded on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 9, 2025, triggered political tension and public concern after it was alleged that NIB operatives had attempted to arrest the MP without following due procedure.
Speaking in an interview with THE NEW FINDER, Mr. Kumodore explained that the term “National Security” encompasses a range of security institutions in Ghana, including the police, military, intelligence services, and other specialized agencies. According to him, joint operations may be commissioned under the directive of National Security when the situation demands a multi-agency approach.
“The operation at the MP’s residence was not strictly an NIB affair. National Security often coordinates such exercises, involving different arms of the security forces depending on the objective. This is standard practice when there’s a need for joint action,” Kumodore explained.
The attempted arrest of Rev. Fordjour has drawn sharp criticism from political figures, including the National Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, who accused the operatives of attempting to arrest the lawmaker without presenting an arrest warrant. He described the move as an abuse of power and a state-sponsored act of intimidation.
Adding another layer to the controversy, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah weighed in, stating that the attempt to arrest a sitting Member of Parliament in such a manner breached constitutional provisions. He stressed that MPs are accorded certain protections under the 1992 Constitution, particularly when Parliament is in session.
“The Constitution outlines procedures for dealing with Members of Parliament, and any deviation from that is unacceptable,” the minister noted.
The operation has sparked wider concerns about the increasing involvement of state security agencies in politically sensitive matters and the growing disregard for due process. Political analysts have cautioned that such actions, if left unchecked, could undermine public trust in democratic institutions and heighten political polarization.
Meanwhile, it remains unclear what specific charges or allegations prompted the attempted arrest of Rev. Fordjour. The silence from official sources has fueled speculation and demands from the public and civil society for transparency and accountability. As the controversy unfolds, all eyes remain on the government and law enforcement agencies for further clarification and, more importantly, adherence to the rule of law in addressing politically delicate issues.
