Ibrahim Adjei, the former Assistant Secretary at the Office of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has emphasised that political affiliation should not be used as an excuse to shield individuals accused of wrongdoing, especially regarding state resources. During an appearance on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Monday, June 16, he urged Ghanaians to prioritise the nation’s interest over partisan politics. This call to action follows revelations from the Attorney General about a GH¢30 million payroll fraud at the National Service Authority (NSA).
“We work for Ghana, and those who tarnish our efforts should not be shielded because they belong to a specific political party. Do not defend wrongdoing if it goes against the interests of Ghana. Let the law take its course,” he cautioned.
Mr. Adjei highlighted that defending acts of corruption to protect political allies jeopardises the country’s progress and undermines the establishment of a credible governance system. He noted that accountability, no matter how uncomfortable it may be, sets a crucial precedent and sends a strong message to those who view politics as an avenue for personal gain. “Governments come and go. Administrations must hold accountable those who violate the law, regardless of political favouritism. This is the path to Ghana’s progress.”
“It sets a benchmark and will deter those who think that getting into politics is a license to make money. Never defend the indefensible; it may make people uneasy, but it is necessary.” His remarks follow a press conference on Friday, June 13, where Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, revealed that Gifty Oware-Mensah, former Deputy Executive Director of the NSA, orchestrated a scheme to misappropriate public funds through payroll fraud.
According to the Attorney General, Oware-Mensah allegedly manipulated the National Service Personnel (NSP) allowance system to secure a GH¢30,698,218.69 loan from the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), using the allowances as collateral at a 23% interest rate. The findings are part of ongoing investigations by the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) task force into financial malfeasance at the NSA. Mr. Adjei concluded by urging the public to support such investigations dispassionately and avoid politicising matters of national accountability.
By: Patricia Boakye
