Lawyers Refute OSP Claims: No Assets or Companies of Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid Seized in Ghana Corruption Probe

Discover the truth behind the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) allegations against former National Petroleum Authority (NPA) CEO Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid. Lawyers from Hay & Partners at Law have issued a strong rebuttal, clarifying that no belongings, firms, or assets linked to their client have been seized. This guide breaks down the dispute, offering clear insights into Ghana’s anti-corruption processes for better understanding.

Introduction

In a high-profile corruption investigation in Ghana, lawyers representing Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), have categorically denied claims by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). The OSP alleged the seizure of assets and companies worth over GH¢100 million connected to Dr. Abdul-Hamid. This statement, released by Hay & Partners at Law and signed by Hanifa Yahaya Esq., labels the OSP’s assertions as “false, misleading, and injurious.”

Understanding this dispute requires context on Ghana’s OSP, established under Act 959 to combat corruption independently. Dr. Abdul-Hamid faces five counts of alleged offenses, as per the OSP’s amended charge sheet filed on October 17, 2025. This introduction sets the stage for a detailed examination, helping readers grasp the stakes in public accountability and fair prosecution.

Background on Key Players

The NPA regulates Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector, making its leadership a focal point for anti-corruption scrutiny. The OSP, led by Kissi Agyebeng, investigates high-level graft. Dr. Abdul-Hamid’s full cooperation with investigations underscores his respect for judicial processes.

Analysis

The lawyers’ statement meticulously dissects the OSP’s public claims, emphasizing factual inaccuracies. No assets or companies “belonging to or associated with Dr. Abdul-Hamid have been known, traced, or confiscated by the OSP,” the firm asserts. They highlight that their client owns no such properties directly or indirectly, and no assets matching the GH¢100 million valuation exist in connection with him.

Crucially, the OSP’s own amended charge sheet from October 17, 2025, lists five counts but omits any mention of seized assets or firms. This omission undermines the prosecutor’s narrative, suggesting a disconnect between court filings and public statements.

OSP’s Conduct Under Scrutiny

The legal team accuses the OSP of “distorting facts” through “public theatrics and false reportage,” diverting from diligent prosecution. As a public institution under Ghanaian law, the OSP must uphold constitutional duties of fairness, integrity, and respect for individual rights. Pre-trial public comments that misrepresent facts are deemed inconsistent with these obligations and unbecoming of a prosecutorial office.

Dr. Abdul-Hamid’s cooperation—attending all court sittings and honoring invitations—contrasts sharply with the OSP’s alleged media sensationalism, especially amid non-compliance with court orders.

Summary

To encapsulate: Lawyers for Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid refute OSP claims of seizing over GH¢100 million in assets or companies. The statement deems these assertions false, with no evidence in the OSP’s charge sheet. It calls for ethical prosecution, praises the client’s cooperation, and warns against prejudicing public opinion, affirming innocence until proven guilty under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For individuals facing similar investigations in Ghana, prioritize full cooperation with authorities like the OSP to demonstrate respect for the rule of law. Engage experienced legal counsel early, such as firms like Hay & Partners, to craft precise responses and monitor proceedings.

Navigating Media in Legal Matters

When public claims arise, respond factually via official statements rather than social media. Verify all documents, like charge sheets, to counter inaccuracies. Citizens following such cases should cross-reference official court records with news reports for accuracy, avoiding sensationalism.

Business owners in regulated sectors like petroleum should maintain transparent records to preempt asset seizure claims, ensuring compliance with NPA and OSP guidelines.

Points of Caution

The lawyers caution that OSP’s actions risk misleading the public and prejudicing fair trials, undermining Ghana’s justice system. Public institutions must avoid “media sensationalism” that distorts facts pre-trial.

Risks to Rule of Law

Any attempt to influence public opinion against an accused erodes trust in judicial processes. Individuals should beware of unverified OSP announcements, as they may not align with court evidence. For Dr. Abdul-Hamid, continued compliance remains key amid ongoing proceedings.

Comparison

OSP Claims vs. Lawyers’ Rebuttal:

This table highlights stark contrasts, pedagogical in illustrating how legal disputes unfold through evidence versus rhetoric.

Legal Implications

Under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, particularly Articles 19 (fair trial rights) and 296 (public officers’ duties), the OSP is bound by fairness and integrity. Distorting facts pre-trial could invite judicial sanctions or contempt charges. The presumption of innocence (Article 19(2)(e)) is sacrosanct, protecting accused like Dr. Abdul-Hamid.

OSP’s Statutory Obligations

Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), mandates confidential, evidence-based probes. Public misrepresentations may breach ethical guidelines, potentially leading to stays of proceedings or appeals. This case exemplifies tensions between anti-corruption zeal and due process.

Conclusion

The lawyers’ rebuttal reaffirms Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid’s position amid the OSP probe, stressing no seized assets and full cooperation. This episode underscores the need for transparent, ethical prosecution in Ghana’s fight against corruption. As proceedings continue, adherence to constitutional principles will determine outcomes, reminding all of the balance between accountability and rights.

Stay informed on OSP Ghana investigations, NPA scandals, and asset seizure laws to navigate Ghana’s evolving legal landscape.

FAQ

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