Kofi Bentil, lawyer and Senior Vice President of IMANI Africa, has strongly criticized the National Intelligence Bureau’s (NIB) attempted arrest of Assin South MP, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, describing it as unlawful and unwarranted.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Thursday, April 10, Bentil questioned the legality of the NIB’s actions and emphasized that Rev. Fordjour had done nothing wrong to justify such treatment.
“There are several issues with this operation,” Bentil said. “Even if someone has committed a crime, an arrest requires a warrant. The suspect must be informed of the crime, and due legal process must follow.”
He condemned the reported use of armed officers who allegedly failed to present a warrant or identify themselves during the operation at the MP’s residence. “Storming someone’s home with weapons, without a warrant or identification, is entirely wrong,” he added.
Bentil also defended Rev. Fordjour’s right to free speech, especially in his role as a lawmaker. “As citizens, we all have the right to express our views and ask questions—so long as no crime is committed in doing so. Rev. Fordjour is well within his rights,” he asserted.
He pointed to Article 41 of Ghana’s Constitution, which mandates citizens to hold public officials accountable, adding that such scrutiny is a democratic duty—not a crime.
“Public officials, including the President, have a responsibility to respond honestly and transparently to questions from citizens,” Bentil stressed.
He concluded by insisting that Rev. Fordjour’s actions do not constitute a crime, noting that if any allegations made by the MP were false or criminal, it would be the responsibility of the accusers to prove so in court.
“Demanding answers and asking tough questions is not a criminal offense. He has every right to do so, both as a citizen and a Member of Parliament,” Bentil emphasized.
