OSPR Engages in “Public Spectacle and Misinformation”

Legal Team Denies Claims of Asset Seizure Against Former NPA CEO

Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), has found himself at the center of a legal dispute involving the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). In response to recent allegations, his legal team has firmly refuted claims that assets worth over GH¢100 million linked to their client have been seized.

In a statement released by Hay & Partners at Law and signed by Hanifa Yahaya, Esq., the legal team described the OSP’s assertions as “false, misleading, and injurious.” They emphasized that no assets or businesses connected to Dr. Abdul-Hamid have been identified, traced, or confiscated by the OSP. According to the statement, their client does not own any such assets, either directly or indirectly, and no property of the stated value exists in connection with him.

The lawyers pointed out that even the OSP’s amended charge sheet, filed on 17 October 2025, which outlines five counts of alleged offenses, makes no mention of any seized property or businesses linked to Dr. Abdul-Hamid. This omission, they argue, highlights the lack of factual basis for the OSP’s claims.

They accused the OSP of distorting facts and engaging in what they called “public theatrics and false reportage” instead of focusing on diligent prosecution. The legal team reminded the OSP, as a public institution established under law, of its constitutional and ethical obligations to perform its duties with fairness, integrity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals.

“Engaging in public commentary that distorts facts before the court is inconsistent with those obligations and unbecoming of the prosecutorial office,” the statement read. The lawyers further noted that Dr. Abdul-Hamid has cooperated fully with the OSP since the start of the investigation, attending every court sitting and honoring all invitations.

They described his conduct as one of “respect for the judicial process,” insisting that the former NPA boss remains innocent until proven guilty under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. “It is deeply regrettable that, instead of complying with court orders, the OSP has chosen to engage in media sensationalism,” the statement added.

The legal team warned that any attempt to misinform the public or prejudice opinion against their client undermines the rule of law and the integrity of Ghana’s justice system. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring that Dr. Abdul-Hamid receives a fair trial and that the legal process is followed without undue influence or distortion.

Key Points from the Legal Statement

  • The legal team strongly denies the OSP’s claims regarding the seizure of assets.
  • No evidence was presented to support the allegations of asset confiscation.
  • The OSP’s amended charge sheet does not reference any seized property.
  • The legal team accuses the OSP of distorting facts and engaging in public theatrics.
  • Dr. Abdul-Hamid has cooperated fully with the investigation and attended all court proceedings.
  • The legal team emphasizes the importance of upholding the rule of law and the integrity of the justice system.

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