Solomon Owusu has criticised the legal counsel representing Hanan Abdul-Wahab and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni in their ongoing legal dispute.
The leading member of the United Party questioned Godfred Dame’s credibility and suitability for handling such a high-profile case.
He referenced alleged past misconduct that he claimed undermines the integrity of the legal profession, adding that such behaviour would have warranted disciplinary action in a serious legal system.
Owusu stated that he places little confidence in the lawyer’s public claims regarding the case, suggesting that past controversies surrounding the counsel weaken his standing in the matter.
The political figure also questioned why the lawyer was engaging the case through radio and television discussions instead of pursuing court proceedings.
“Is EOCO allowed to do what they did? The answer is an emphatic yes. Other than that, the lawyer for Hanan would not be speaking on radio, but would rather go to the appropriate office or quarters to battle it out. Lawyers don’t fight on radio or television, but rather go to a law court and do what is appropriate.”
Solomon Owusu
He argued that legal disputes should be addressed in appropriate judicial forums. He noted that if the detention was unlawful, the proper remedy would have been an application for habeas corpus, claiming that the use of media platforms was intended to sway public opinion unfairly.
Owusu also highlighted the Attorney General’s dual role as Minister of Justice, stressing the responsibility to ensure fairness for all parties. He contrasted the current situation with past cases he believes exposes inconsistencies in accountability, including matters handled during Godfred Dame’s tenure as Attorney General.
He referenced the treatment of Gregory Afoko as an example of previous state handling of criminal cases and expressed disappointment in what he described as insufficient disciplinary action by legal institutions.
Owusu argued that claims about denial of access to legal counsel could be misleading or unverified. He noted that the lawyer was not present during interrogations and relied solely on accounts from the suspects.
He urged the public not to rely on narratives from individuals with contested professional records and added that EOCO should be allowed to respond fully before conclusions are drawn.
He emphasised that the legal profession demands integrity and strict adherence to professional standards, stating that emotional media commentary should not replace evidence presented in court.
EOCO And Attorney General Acting Within Mandate— Solomon Owusu
Solomon Owusu also expressed strong support for the re-arrest and detention of Hanan and his wife following the withdrawal of initial charges.
According to him, the Attorney General acted within full legal authority in filing a nolle prosequi in the matter.
The United Party member also insisted that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) acted within its mandate in detaining the pair for further interrogation. He stressed that state institutions must focus on protecting national finances and upholding the country’s integrity during the process.
Owusu further urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid being misled by individuals he accused of attempting to distort public perception. He maintained that national discourse should not be driven by misinformation or emotional manipulation.
He dismissed claims that the re-arrest amounted to abuse of power or human rights violations, explaining that investigators often obtain fresh evidence that requires new legal directions in the interest of justice.
Owusu noted that although charges were dropped against the couple, other suspects in the same matter were still facing trial. He questioned why some politicians were demanding immediate release when investigations were still ongoing under established legal procedures.
He also called on the public to exercise patience and allow EOCO to complete its investigations without interference or premature criticism, arguing that justice requires due process rather than public pressure.
The political figure further criticised the involvement of NPP party executives in publicly calling for the release of the CEO, warning that interference by individuals familiar with state operations could compromise ongoing investigations.
Owusu highlighted concerns surrounding the National Food Buffer Stock Company, citing allegations of financial irregularities that required a full and transparent probe. He added that taxpayers had suffered delays in payments to food suppliers in the previous year.
He stated that the legal process was intended to recover state funds and ensure accountability for any wrongdoing uncovered, emphasising the importance of protecting public resources through lawful enforcement.
“People are put at various positions to manage the taxes well. Instead of us to look at what will come out so that our monies are retrieved, we are here bastardizing them?”
Solomon Owusu
He added that the law allows detention where investigators need more time to process new evidence.
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