His Excellency Dr. Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah‑Atokple, Volta Region representative on the Council of State and founder of Sesi‑Edem Company Limited, has called on the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to issue a public apology for allegedly defying a High Court ruling.
Dr. Kwamigah‑Atokple is under investigation by EOCO over an allegations of gold transaction and money laundering.
According to H E. Tanko, the High Court in Adentan ruled on March 19, 2026, that EOCO acted without lawful authority, violated constitutional fairness, and ordered the unfreezing of his company’s accounts. Despite this ruling, EOCO has continued its vilification by issuing a publication with a claim that the council of state member is wanted by IOCO, challenging the court’s authority, prompting Dr. Kwamigah‑Atokple to demand legal redress.
In a strongly worded statement, he directed EOCO’s Acting Executive Director, Raymond Archer, to retract its statements and apologise publicly within 12 hours or face legal action. He has also petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to dismiss EOCO’s leadership, citing abuse of office and disregard for judicial authority.
The dispute arises from a commercial gold supply agreement between Sesi‑Edem Company Limited and J.G. Resources Ltd. EOCO claims the company acquired gold under false pretences and may have concealed proceeds of crime. Dr. Kwamigah‑Atokple insists the transaction was legitimate, fully licensed, and that a substantial portion of the gold had already been delivered.
The controversy has drawn mixed reactions. Some schools of thought argue that EOCO’s actions violate the rule of law and show disrespect for judicial authority. Critics warn that such public disputes could undermine confidence in state institutions and call for investigations to follow legal procedures rather than media narratives. Observers urge calm and a lawful resolution to avoid escalation and reputational damage.
The situation has sparked widespread debate among legal practitioners and civil society organizations, many of whom emphasize the importance of respecting court rulings. Lawyers have pointed out that EOCO’s continued public statements could be seen as contempt of court, and they insist that all investigative agencies must operate strictly within legal boundaries. Observers argue that allowing exceptions could set a dangerous precedent for how high-profile cases are handled in the country.
Meanwhile, citizens on social media have expressed mixed feelings, with some sympathizing with Dr. Kwamigah‑Atokple and calling for immediate action against perceived institutional overreach. Others stress that due process must be followed and that the legal system, including appeals mechanisms, is the proper avenue for resolving disputes. The debate has ignited conversations about the balance between law enforcement powers and the protection of individuals’ rights in Ghana.
Dr. Kwamigah‑Atokple is actively involved in the Duamenefa Foundation, a Non Governmental Organization with a voluntary movement of over 48,654 registered and certified volunteers across the length and breath of the Volta Region and beyond, mandated to promote peaceful coexistence and community development across Ghana. His Excellency, Dr. Tanko plays a vital role in pursuing these initiatives and provides significant support for the foundation’s projects, helping to implement programs that impact communities positively.
Speaking on the matter, Mr. Ketaman Emmanuel Evortepe, Executive President of Duamenefa Foundation, described EOCO’s actions as unconstitutional. He stressed that rulings from a court of competent jurisdiction must be respected and called on all state agencies to adhere to legal processes, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law for national stability and community trust.
Legal experts have warned that EOCO’s continued defiance of a High Court order could set a troubling precedent for the enforcement of judicial authority in Ghana. They emphasize that no government agency is above the law, and failure to comply with court rulings may invite further legal challenges or scrutiny from oversight bodies.
Public opinion continues to play a crucial role, as citizens demand transparency and accountability from state institutions. Many are calling for reforms to ensure that investigative agencies operate within constitutional boundaries, highlighting the importance of balancing law enforcement duties with the protection of individual rights.
Analysts suggest that the outcome of this standoff could have far-reaching consequences for both EOCO and public confidence in state institutions. If EOCO is perceived as disregarding judicial authority, it could face increased scrutiny and criticism, not only from the public but also from oversight bodies and international partners monitoring governance and rule-of-law standards. Many are now closely watching to see whether the agency will comply with the court’s directives or escalate the dispute further through legal or political channels.
As the deadline for EOCO’s public apology looms, many are watching closely to see whether the matter will be resolved through dialogue or escalate into further legal action. The outcome could have significant implications for the enforcement of court rulings and institutional accountability in Ghana.
By Hutor Dziwornu, Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze.
Edited by: Isabella Emmanuella Evortepe, UEW – Fafaa 100.3 Fm