Hanan Abdul-Wahab, the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), has formally petitioned the Attorney-General. He is demanding the immediate return of £6,700 and GHS 2,750 in cash, two mobile phones, and his passport from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). The total cash amount is equivalent to GHS 128,700, calculated at current exchange rates.
His legal representatives, Dame & Partners, sent a letter dated 9th July 2026 to the Attorney-General and EOCO's Executive Director. This demand follows Mr Abdul-Wahab's arrest on 4th July 2026 at the Accra International Airport while travelling to the United Kingdom for a medical appointment. He faced detention at the Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI) and EOCO cells before his release on 8th July 2026.
This incident fits into a broader pattern of state security agencies confiscating assets during investigations. Concerns often arise regarding due process and the prompt return of items not linked to alleged crimes. The actions by EOCO highlight ongoing scrutiny over the powers and accountability of such institutions in Ghana. This case could reinforce calls for clearer guidelines on handling personal effects and funds during arrests, especially for public figures.
Dame & Partners state EOCO is unlawfully retaining their client's properties without legal justification. When Mr Abdul-Wahab reported to the EOCO office on 9th July 2026, he only received an empty purse, a wristwatch, and his boarding pass. The investigating officer, Frank Cromwell, reportedly said he lacked authorisation to release the remaining items. These items included two mobile phones and three envelopes containing £5,000, £1,700, and GHS 2,750.
His lawyers argue that the seized cash was borrowed specifically for travel and medical expenses. They insist these funds were not from any frozen bank accounts. Furthermore, the legal team accuses EOCO officials of violating Mr Abdul-Wahab's right to privacy. They claim data on his two seized mobile phones was accessed without judicial authorisation on two separate occasions while he was in custody.
EOCO's continued retention of Mr Abdul-Wahab's passport also violates a High Court order from 29th June 2026. This order released the passport for his medical travel, with a directive for its return directly to the Registrar of the High Court upon his return. Counsel asserts that holding the passport without a specific court warrant contradicts Article 21(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which protects personal liberty and movement.
The law firm, led by former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame, has requested a full account of the data accessed from the phones. They have also warned of legal action if the items are not released immediately. This case will likely test the boundaries of executive power versus individual rights. It also highlights the need for transparent protocols in managing seized assets during state investigations. Observers will watch how the Attorney-General's office responds to this challenge and its potential implications for future cases.