This is personal now – Lecturer warns of NPP revenge over Wontumi arrest

Dr. Samuel Afriyie, a lecturer at Kumasi Technical University, has issued a warning to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He stated that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will respond to recent arrests of its leaders when it regains power.

His comments followed the detention and release of Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi. Dr. Afriyie accused the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) of acting politically. He described Wontumi's treatment as “heartless” and “humiliating.”

“I pity the young politicians in the NDC,” he said. “They are going to suffer the revenge.” He warned that the next NPP government would not forgive what happened to Wontumi and other party members.

Dr. Afriyie specifically mentioned NDC figures like Sammy Gyamfi, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Sam George. He suggested these younger party members would face political payback.

His remarks reflect a growing belief within the NPP that the current administration is targeting political opponents using state institutions. Wontumi’s arrest was linked to allegations of fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state. After nearly a week in EOCO custody, he was granted bail set at GHS50 million.

This incident follows legal scrutiny on former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who is receiving treatment for prostate cancer abroad but remains under investigation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

Another case involving Kumi, chairman of NPP’s Adenta constituency, has raised further concerns about selective justice.

Dr. Afriyie warned that any calls for calm from moderate NPP leaders would be rejected by party supporters. “Any leader who calls for sympathy will not be forgiven,” he said. “The base is angry now, and they will not forget.”

He framed Wontumi’s arrest as part of a broader attack on the dignity of the NPP. He concluded with a stark prediction: “This was not just an attack on Wontumi; it was an attack on our party's spirit and pride.”