Tempers flared and tension soared on Tuesday after news broke that Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, had been picked up by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) had reportedly honoured a prior invitation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to assist with an undisclosed matter.
But what began as a routine engagement quickly escalated when EOCO officers arrested and detained him — a move that sent shockwaves through the party’s rank and file.
Within hours, NPP supporters and regional executives stormed EOCO’s premises, demanding answers and access to their embattled chairman.
Their presence grew, turning the usually quiet compound into a charged environment. Security was swiftly reinforced, with military personnel deployed to restore calm and prevent any outbreak of violence.
As evening fell, EOCO remained tight-lipped about the reason behind Wontumi’s arrest, heightening speculation and stirring concern across political circles.
Speaking to the press, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye didn’t hold back his frustrations. He slammed EOCO’s conduct and accused them of trampling on the rights of a key party figure.
“This situation is unfortunate. Denying access to our own Regional Chairman without justification raises serious concerns,” he said. “We will not tolerate any form of political intimidation disguised as law enforcement.”
The incident has further strained the already tense political atmosphere, with the NPP hinting at a coordinated clampdown on its members in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.
