OSP Officer Recounts Kpebu's Confrontation with Soldiers: A Detailed Account
In a recent panel discussion on JoyNews' NewsFile programme, an anonymous officer from the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) revealed the details of a heated exchange between renowned lawyer Martin Kpebu and soldiers at the OSP premises. The officer, who witnessed the entire incident, provided a first-hand account of the events that led to Kpebu's arrest.
According to the officer, the clash began when Kpebu was conducting an interview near the OSP compound. The soldiers on duty reminded Kpebu that he should go straight to the reception after parking his car, rather than conducting interviews in the vicinity. Kpebu allegedly responded defiantly, insisting that he could do as he pleased and that the soldiers had no authority to dictate his actions.
The tension escalated quickly, with Kpebu using insults, including the 'F' word, towards the soldiers. The officer confirmed that Kpebu was the one initiating the verbal abuse, contrary to his claims. She emphasized that there was no physical violence, only the verbal exchanges that she overheard.
Martin Kpebu's version of events, however, paints a different picture. He claims that a soldier, who was not wearing a name tag, had allowed him to park his car and then threatened to restrict his movement in the future. Kpebu argues that he challenged the soldier's authority, as he was not under investigation and was only there to provide additional information.
The situation became more heated when another soldier shouted a warning, which Kpebu interpreted as a threat. Feeling provoked, Kpebu turned around and argued with the soldier, insisting that the officer had no right to speak to him in such a manner. Tensions rose further when one of the soldiers called Kpebu 'stupid,' prompting Kpebu to respond in kind.
The officer refutes the idea that Kpebu was provoked by the security personnel. She explains that the soldiers were firm in their instructions, and Kpebu's response was defiant and confrontational. The officer's account highlights the verbal exchanges and Kpebu's use of insults, which led to his eventual arrest and detention at the OSP.
Martin Kpebu was released after nearly five hours in custody, following public outrage over his arrest. The incident has sparked discussions about the handling of public figures by law enforcement agencies and the importance of maintaining a calm and professional environment during interactions with authorities.
