The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strongly condemned the arrest of its Sunyani East Constituency Communications Officer, Abubakar Yakubu—widely known as Baba Amando—describing the development as a troubling sign for democratic governance and civil liberties in Ghana.

In a statement issued on April 13, 2026, and signed by the party’s National Organizer, Henry Nana Boakye (popularly known as Nana B), the NPP expressed deep concern over what it characterises as the increasing use of state security institutions to intimidate political opponents under the administration of John Dramani Mahama.

Confusion Surrounding Police Invitation

According to the party, Mr. Yakubu honoured an invitation from the Ghana Police Service by reporting to the Bono Regional Police Headquarters in Sunyani at approximately 10:00 a.m., accompanied by his lawyer, Alfred Tuah Yeboah, a former Deputy Attorney-General.

However, upon arrival, both Yakubu and his legal counsel were reportedly informed by officers at the regional command that there was no record or knowledge of any such invitation. This unexpected development led to further inquiries, which redirected attention to the Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters in Accra.

Subsequently, the CID in Accra allegedly instructed the Bono Regional Police CID to arrest Mr. Yakubu and arrange for his immediate transfer to the capital. He has since been taken into custody and is being conveyed to Accra for further investigations.

Political Tensions And Allegations Of Intimidation

The NPP has described the sequence of events as irregular and indicative of a broader pattern of political intimidation. The party argues that the arrest raises fundamental concerns about freedom of expression and the protection of dissenting voices in the democratic space.

Baba Amando, a known political communicator and media personality in the Bono Region, has been active in public discourse, frequently publishing commentary on political developments.

His recent criticisms—particularly surrounding the controversial NDC communications workshop in Sunyani—are widely believed to have drawn national attention and possibly triggered the police action.

The NPP contends that the arrest is not only unjustified but also strategically timed to divert public attention from pressing national issues, including rising fuel prices, increasing utility tariffs, and broader economic challenges.

Call For Due Process And Rule Of Law

In its statement, the NPP called on Ghanaians to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to erode democratic freedoms. The party further urged authorities to adhere strictly to due process and uphold the constitutional rights of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.