A dramatic security breach near Ghana’s presidential seat has sparked national outrage and renewed concerns about the growing influence of powerful private individuals, following the arrest of Nigerian businessman Ben Peters for allegedly orchestrating a road blockade in one of Accra’s most sensitive zones.
The incident, which unfolded on Monday, April 7, 2025, just meters from the Jubilee House and within the diplomatic enclave of Kanda, saw Peters and an entourage of over 60 people descend in convoy-style on the estate, causing a three-hour disruption that affected access to key facilities and diplomatic residences, including that of the Spanish Ambassador.
National Security officials arrested Peters along with 20 to 25 others after they reportedly obstructed public roads in what authorities believe was an escalation of a private property dispute with the estate’s developer. According to Deputy Director of Operations at the Jubilee House, Mustapha Gbande, the group arrived in alarming fashion—blaring sirens, suited security personnel, and vehicles that mimicked state convoys.
“This is not just a business dispute—it’s a threat to national order,” Mr. Gbande said. “The sheer audacity of this display, so close to the seat of government, is deeply concerning. No one—Ghanaian or foreign—should have the power to disrupt the peace in such a manner.”
Armed men posing as private security were part of Peters’ group, and authorities discovered what appeared to be official police motorbikes and an SUV allegedly meant to escort Peters from within the estate. Peters, when confronted, claimed he blocked the road in protest after being denied additional keys to apartments he owns in the estate.
Initial reports that Peters resisted arrest until the arrival of Ibrahim Mahama, brother of former President John Mahama, have been denied by officials. According to Mr. Gbande, it was the swift intervention of the Greater Accra Police Command that deescalated the situation and led to the arrests.
The arrest has opened old wounds, with revelations that Peters was once linked to Ghana’s COVID-19 infrastructure project under the Akufo-Addo administration, managing sensitive logistics and payment systems.
“This cannot be the precedent for how disputes are settled in our country,” Mr. Gbande emphasized. “We must protect the integrity of our laws and institutions. Ghana is a sovereign state—not a playground for the powerful.”
The incident has reignited public debate over the unchecked power of influential individuals and foreign investors operating within Ghana’s borders, especially in sectors tied to real estate, security, and past government contracts.
As the investigation continues, security experts are calling for tighter regulation on private security outfits and more stringent vetting of foreign nationals involved in high-stakes business.
The message from Jubilee House is clear: the rule of law must prevail—no matter who you are.
