Martin Kpebu released after hours in OSP custody

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has been released after spending several hours in the custody of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), following a confrontation with security personnel at the institution’s headquarters on Wednesday.

Kpebu was arrested earlier in the day after an exchange with officers stationed at the entrance of the OSP compound. He had arrived to conduct a media interview when guards reportedly instructed him to move away from the restricted area and reminded him of the ban on photography and videography within the precincts. According to the OSP, Kpebu refused to comply, used offensive language, and obstructed the officers, prompting his arrest.

After his release, Kpebu strongly disputed the OSP’s account. He claimed he was provoked by one of the officers, alleging that a soldier insulted him first, leading to a heated verbal exchange. He described the arrest as unnecessary and part of what he believes is an attempt to intimidate him following his public accusations against the Special Prosecutor.

Kpebu has recently alleged corruption and conflict of interest on the part of the Special Prosecutor and has vowed to submit a formal petition outlining several claims. He says more individuals have come forward with information, leading him to expand the number of issues he intends to raise.

Meanwhile, legal analysts and civil society observers say the incident has added a new layer of tension to the ongoing dispute between Kpebu and the OSP. Some have questioned whether the arrest was proportionate, while others insist the security personnel were within their rights to enforce protocol.

With his release, attention now shifts to whether Kpebu will proceed with his planned petition and how the OSP will respond as the standoff between the two sides continues to unfold.