Big shame on Circuit Court judge for remanding Baba Amando despite prosecution not seeking remand — Afenyo Markin

The Minority Leader, Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has launched a scathing attack on a Circuit Court judge over the decision to remand NPP Sunyani East Communications Officer, Abubakar Yakubu, also known as Baba Amando, despite what he says was the prosecution’s position not to seek such an order.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, April 14, he described the ruling as a “big shame,” arguing that the judge acted improperly by ordering the two week remand even though the prosecution had not applied for it.

Osahen Afenyo-Markin questioned the fairness of the proceedings, insisting the judge’s conduct raises serious concerns about judicial discretion and due process.

He, however, praised the Ghana Police Service for what he described as a professional approach in handling the arrest and investigation.

“I want to commend the Ghana Police Service that, for nothing at all, they have demonstrated professionalism. I will commend the IGP, the Director-General of CID, and the police prosecutors, as well as the police detectives; they have been professional.

“But that judge, the Circuit Court judge, shame on him. He has brought a big shame onto himself and the judiciary,” he said.

According to him, the prosecution had indicated that it only needed time to conduct forensic examinations, particularly because the case involves alleged social media publications.

He explained that police, through surveillance, identified the post in question, invited the suspect for questioning, took his statement and released him within the constitutionally mandated 48 hour period.

Osahen Afenyo-Markin further stated that during court proceedings, the prosecution did not apply for remand but left the matter to the discretion of the court. He claimed the judge instead pressed the prosecution to seek a remand order, a request they reportedly declined.

Abubakar Yakubu was arrested on Monday, April 13, 2026, as part of investigations into allegations of offensive conduct, false publication and the circulation of statements likely to cause fear and panic.

Although formal charges are yet to be filed, sources suggest the case may be linked to alleged threats against a judge at the Adentan Circuit Court, a development that has sparked concern within legal and governance circles.