Special Prosecutor needs adult supervision – Martin Kpebu

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu argues that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) requires stronger oversight to prevent its occupant from damaging public trust in the institution. Kpebu asserts that the recent controversy surrounding the OSP may stem from the unwise conduct and leadership style of the current Special Prosecutor.

He contends that it is challenging to separate the institution from its leader because the Special Prosecutor serves as its public face. Kpebu emphasizes that the occupant of the office is the chief executive and ambassador of the organization, and any dissatisfaction with their governance can harm the OSP's reputation. He criticizes the legislative process for failing to include adequate safeguards to regulate the actions of the person in the position.

Kpebu questions how the law could have been drafted without foresight into potential issues. He believes that the framers of the law assumed the occupant would always act appropriately. Kpebu highlights the lack of sufficient checks and balances as a contributing factor to the current tensions. His remarks follow the Supreme Court's July 29, 2026 ruling upholding the OSP's constitutionality.

The court affirmed the Attorney-General's role in supervising the Special Prosecutor, which Kpebu views as the necessary adult supervision for the occupant.