Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s Midday News on Thursday, April 10, Afenyo-Markin expressed concern over what he described as intimidation tactics being used by some government officials against political opponents.

“The government has explained its side of the story. If you disagree with the proposal that there should be a bipartisan committee, if you disagree that there should be a commission of inquiry, so be it. You are a government, but you don’t, through your agents or officials, threaten the Member of Parliament and put him through such trauma. We don’t need it, and I will call on His Excellency the President to call these hawks in the government to order. We don’t need them,” he said.

He urged President Mahama to help end what he termed a “vicious political cycle” of targeting opponents, emphasizing that governance must focus on addressing the needs of the people rather than persecuting political rivals.

Afenyo-Markin warned that such actions risk reintroducing a culture of fear reminiscent of the PNDC era, marked by political arrests and suppression.

“Four years may seem far away, but it may be nearer than we think. We must break this vicious cycle as a political class and focus on real issues of governance so that the people will benefit from it,” he added.

The Minority Leader also hinted at what he described as clandestine plots against the Chief Justice and other high-profile individuals, suggesting that the Minority is aware of these schemes and will respond appropriately.

In an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Nana B stated that Rev. Ntim Fordjour possesses evidence in the case, but criticized the actions of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), who stormed the lawmaker’s home without showing an arrest warrant.

“Rev. Ntim Fordjour has concrete evidence to back his position, but the conduct of the NIB officials is wrong. They should have followed due process,” Nana B stated.

The standoff occurred on April 9, when NIB officials attempted to arrest the Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, without following the proper legal channels.

The incident has sparked widespread concern regarding the NIB’s approach.

Nana B questioned why the NIB did not go through the Speaker of Parliament before attempting to arrest the lawmaker at his residence.

“Why didn’t they go through the Speaker of Parliament, as required by the constitution? Even the President has advised that institutions must work to investigate such matters properly,” he said.

He also expressed his disappointment with Government Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who dismissed concerns over the incident, calling it a “bad precedent.” Nana B stated, “It’s not a joke. If I had sensitive information like this, I wouldn’t feel confident either. Why would they storm his house in such a Rambo-style operation?”

The NPP official called for a commission of inquiry into the matter, highlighting the importance of following the correct legal procedures.

“We are law-abiding citizens and expect institutions to respect the process. They must go through the proper channels,” he stated firmly.

He praised Rev. Ntim Fordjour for his resilience in the face of these challenges.

“Ntim is my hero right now. He is strong, resilient, and refuses to be intimidated. He will stand firm,” Nana B said.

He also warned that such actions could backfire, especially if the NDC continues down this path. “If they don’t take care, the NDC will bring shame to President Mahama,” Nana B added.

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The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has raised serious concerns about the relationship between security agencies and elected representatives.

According to the Minority, the attempt by operatives of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) to arrest the MP at his Spintex residence was carried out without regard for the laid-down procedures required when dealing with sitting Members of Parliament.

The Minority’s Chief Whip, Frank Annoh Dompreh, expressed these concerns in a formal memorandum to the Speaker.

The memo emphasized the importance of respecting the privileges of Parliament and warned that failure to do so could undermine the authority and independence of the legislature.

The attempted arrest is reportedly linked to ongoing investigations into suspected drug trafficking and money laundering activities involving two international flights that passed through Ghana in March 2025.

While the details of Reverend Fordjour’s alleged connection to the matter remain unclear, the Minority insists that any such inquiries must follow due process.

In their communication to the Speaker, the Minority reiterated their commitment to the rule of law but stressed that all interactions between MPs and security agencies must strictly adhere to constitutional safeguards and established parliamentary norms.

They called on Speaker Alban Bagbin to assert his authority and prevent any recurrence of what they described as a breach of parliamentary sanctity.

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Speaking on JoyPrime’s Prime Morning Show on Wednesday, Oppong Nkrumah stressed that the challenges facing the NPP require a collective effort from all members, not an individual effort.

“I don’t think any single person can bring the party together. Anybody going around saying he is going to bring the party together should stop saying it,” he said when asked about the ongoing disagreement between the party and Adwoa Safo, and the General Secretary’s promise to unite the party ahead of the 2028 elections.

He emphasised the need for collaboration to rebuild and strengthen the party.

“All of us must understand that we have to collectively work together,” he stated.

The Ofoase-Ayirebi MP further noted that discipline must be upheld among party members despite their differences.

“In politics, you don’t need to like one another or be friends to work together. We must understand that the success of a political enterprise lies in our ability to come together and work together.”

He added that healing divisions and undertaking reforms are essential if the NPP is to remain competitive in future elections.

“We have to heal wounds, we have to reform as a party,” he concluded.

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Out of 43 eligible voters, including assembly members and government appointees, Mrs. Amefadzi Yawa secured 41 votes, confirming her strong support within the district.

Her confirmation also makes her the third woman to occupy the DCE position in North Tongu’s administrative history.

The confirmation ceremony was marked by a notable display of unity and support from key stakeholders, reflecting optimism in her ability to lead and promote development in the area.

In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Amefadzi Yawa expressed gratitude and pledged her commitment to advancing the socio-economic development of North Tongu.

She acknowledged the progress made under her predecessors and promised to build upon their achievements.

She appealed for collaboration and support from assembly members, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders to ensure a successful tenure.

Meanwhile, the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, commended the assembly for endorsing the only female nominee among the three presidential nominations in the region and encouraged them to rally behind her efforts to fulfill the mandate of the office.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr. Jinapor said it is both fair and right to insist on such a declaration, given that the NDC had made a categorical promise on the matter prior to the 2024 election.

“They were very categorical in their promises before coming to power. If they will not follow through with it, they should communicate that to the people,” he said.

The former Lands Minister pointed out that the galamsey situation has worsened after the election, making the need for a state of emergency even more urgent.

“Today, galamsey is worse off, and a state of emergency is even more needed. If a state of emergency is what is going to help curb the situation, what is avoiding us from declaring it?” he asked.

He stressed the importance of being principled in politics and governance, stressing the need for consistency.

“If we are going to build a nation, we need to be very consistent. We should insist on politics and governance of principle. Ghanaians voted for them, and they are in government now. They should do the right thing and be truthful to the people” he said.

Meanwhile, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has affirmed the government’s commitment to addressing illegal mining activities.

He stated that the government is exploring all possible measures, including declaring a state of emergency and temporarily banning small-scale mining, to clamp down on the menace.

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In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr. Jinapor said “What has he done that warrants his arrest? If he is arrested, what would be the legal basis for detaining him? The concept of arrest is often used a bit loosely in Ghana.”

Mr. Jinapor, a member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), further explained that being arrested doesn’t necessarily mean being detained, noting that the legal framework determines whether someone can be held.

“When law enforcement is conducting investigations, they can invite or arrest you as a suspect. However, when you are arrested, it doesn’t mean you will be detained as many Ghanaians may think,” he said.

He continued, “Whether or not you will be detained is governed by law, not by public opinion.”

The lawmaker also stated that, in his experience as Deputy Chief of Staff, he saw many things and tried to ensure the law worked fairly.

“In government, you cannot even predict when things will go your way, so we should allow the law and the rule of law to prevail.”

The controversy stems from allegations made by Rev. Fordjour concerning two aircraft that were allegedly linked to drug trafficking and money laundering.

Rev. Fordjour, citing intelligence sources, claimed that the aircraft might have been transporting illicit substances, including cocaine and large sums of U.S. dollars.

However, some members of the opposition, including Sammy Gyamfi, National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and Felix Kwakye Ofosu, have called for the arrest of Rev. Fordjour, demanding that he substantiates his claims or face legal consequences.

But Mr. Jinapor, while acknowledging the gravity of the allegations, defended Rev. Fordjour’s character.

“Rev. Fordjour is an excellent gentleman and knows what he is doing. He’s not trying to deliberately tarnish Ghana’s image,” Jinapor stated.

He also urged all parties to allow for an investigation to take place.

“Let’s all sober down and let’s find a way to bring this matter to a conclusion. People say things in the heat of the moment. We should relax and allow the laws to work,” he urged.

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In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, and signed by the Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, the Minority appealed to the Diplomatic Community to support Ghanaian authorities in investigating the alleged landing of two AirMed flights and a Cavok Air cargo flight that reportedly transported suspected illicit drugs and money into the country.

The request follows a press conference held by the Minority on April 1, 2025, during which they raised serious national security concerns and called on state authorities to probe the mysterious flights.

President John Dramani Mahama subsequently directed state investigative agencies to look into the matter.

However, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has since dismissed the allegations, describing the investigations as “a waste of time” and suggesting that the President’s directive was not genuine.

Contrary to the Minister’s claims that the AirMed flights originated from Luanda, independent checks by the Minority have confirmed that both flights arrived directly from Gran Canaria.

Additionally, doubts have emerged over the flight history of the Cavok aircraft, as no evidence has been found to support claims that it flew into Ghana on the stated dates.

“The questions surrounding these flights warrant thorough, credible investigations,” the statement read. “Ghana is a signatory to numerous international conventions that bind us to fight transnational crimes, including illicit drug trafficking and money laundering.”

The statement cited key international conventions, including the UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime, as binding obligations requiring Ghana to act decisively against such crimes.

The Minority also reminded the public of legislative measures taken in recent years, such as the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), and the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2020 (Act 1044), stressing that Ghana cannot afford to falter in enforcing its anti-narcotics and anti-money laundering regime.

To this end, the Minority has proposed five interventions from the Diplomatic Community:

1. Share intelligence on the aircraft and flights involved with Ghanaian security authorities;

2. Facilitate collaboration between foreign and Ghanaian security agencies in ongoing and future investigations;

3. Assist the Ghanaian state, particularly Parliament, in safeguarding the country’s reputation from becoming a drug transit point;

4. Urge government to establish a Commission of Inquiry under Article 278 of the Constitution to probe the matter fully and impartially;

5. Show keen interest in the independence of Parliament and the safety of whistleblowers such as Hon. John Ntim Fordjour and other MPs involved in oversight efforts.

The Minority’s appeal, according to the statement, underscores the urgent need for international cooperation to ensure Ghana’s integrity is upheld and to safeguard both national and global security from the adverse effects of transnational organized crime.

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In an interview, NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong announced the decision to postpone the party’s meeting, initially planned for Monday, April 7, citing the gravity of the drug trafficking allegations as the reason.

According to Mr. Kodua, the party considers the ongoing scandal a matter of national interest that requires urgent attention and critical engagement with the government, rather than diverting attention to internal disciplinary matters involving Adwoa Safo.

“There is not going to be any discussion on whether or not Honourable Adwoa Safo is going to appear before any committee or not. What the party is going to discuss is the ongoing issue with respect to the alleged drug trafficking in our country,” he stressed.

The General Secretary emphasized that the party would not allow its focus to shift to Adwoa Safo’s matter at this critical time.

“Our priority now is the alleged drug trafficking scandal, not internal party politics. Ghanaians deserve answers from the government. We expect transparency, accountability, and clarity on this matter,” he added.

He expressed disappointment in the government’s handling of the situation, raising concerns about inconsistencies in the official narrative surrounding the scandal, which he believes has dented Ghana’s image internationally.

“The rank and file of our party have expressed disappointment at the worrying behavior of this government. There are several mind-boggling questions we expect the government to answer. The attempt to sweep these critical issues under the carpet is unacceptable,” Mr. Kodua stated.

He further criticized the government’s silence on the matter, questioning why there has not been any official communication from the country’s security agencies despite the magnitude of the allegations.

“This is worrying and embarrassing for our country. It is shocking that, when this issue has become an international topic, we are yet to hear any official communication from our security agencies,” he lamented.

His comments come ahead of Madam Adwoa Safo, accompanied by her supporters, storming the NPP headquarters to appear before the party’s Disciplinary Committee. She expressed disappointment that the committee failed to officially notify her about the postponement of her scheduled appearance before them.

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The new DCE also pledged to work closely with assembly staff and local stakeholders to ensure inclusive and sustainable development across all the district’s communities.

During the event, the Western North Regional Minister, Wilbert Petty Brentum, who attended the ceremony, expressed full support for Mr. Baidoo’s leadership. He urged him to take strong action against illegal mining activities, which continue to present environmental and social challenges in the region.

“I am confident Mr. Baidoo will uphold the vision of the President and the aspirations of the people of Sehwi Bodi,” the Minister remarked.

The unanimous endorsement marks a fresh start for the people of Sehwi Bodi, who now eagerly anticipate a new phase of progress and development under the leadership of Stephen Baidoo.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/krobea-asante-urges-anyaa-sowutuom-party-officers-to-start-campaigning-for-2028-victory/ Sun, 06 Apr 2025 18:17:59 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2522384 The Constituency Executive Committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Anyaa Sowutuom convened for an important general meeting today, bringing together party officers from various levels to reflect on the 2024 general elections and strategize for future success.

George Krobea Asante, Deputy National Communications Director of the NPP, graced the gathering and delivered a straightforward address.

He called on party officials to move past the negative attitudes that contributed to the party’s lackluster performance in the 2024 elections.

Emphasizing the importance of grassroots involvement, Krobea Asante urged members to immediately start campaigning, stressing that the journey to a victorious 2028 election cycle begins now.

He emphasized that unity, dedication, and discipline are essential for achieving success at all levels within the party.

The directive in question cautioned party members against making public statements that could create disaffection for the party.

Adwoa Safo, in series of interviews, is believed to have made comments that contravened this order.

According to the official invitation, the hearing will take place at 11:00 a.m. in the Conference Room of the NPP Headquarters at Asylum Down, Accra.

The former MP has been advised to present any documentary evidence or witnesses relevant to the case and is entitled to legal representation during the proceedings.

The Party says the invitation forms part of its commitment to transparency, fairness, and due process.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/provide-accountability-for-suspected-drug-trafficking-and-flight-incidents-npp-to-govt/ Sun, 06 Apr 2025 13:04:11 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2522254 The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has issued a strong call for transparency and accountability from the government over recent incidents involving two foreign aircrafts in Ghana, and a high-profile drug trafficking cases.

In a statement, the NPP condemned what it described as the government’s intimidation of minority voices raising legitimate concerns about the presence of AirMed flight N823AM and Cavok Air Antonov An-12B in the country.

The party questioned the aircrafts’ origin and mission, insisting that the public deserves a satisfactory explanation.

The NPP expressed concern that the government appeared to be politicizing public curiosity, warning that this approach only “reinforces the suspicion that the explanation is contrived.”

The party noted that the UN Office on Drugs and Crime had also called on the government to investigate the purpose of the flights.

Beyond the aircraft issue, the NPP demanded updates on two major drug trafficking cases—the $350 million cocaine bust in Cape Coast and the $150 million cocaine seizure in Sekondi.

The party claimed the government has failed to provide meaningful information on these matters, especially regarding alleged links to a senior member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“This silence on high-profile arrests undermines public trust,” the statement continued. “The government must not trivialize matters of drug trafficking and money laundering, as we have seen so far.”

The NPP urged security agencies to provide a detailed, professional account of the cargo and mission of the aircraft in question and called on the government to demonstrate seriousness in the fight against transnational crime.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/ghana-cant-be-a-cocaine-coast-cdm-to-mahama-govt/ Sun, 06 Apr 2025 11:25:42 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2522240 In a hard-hitting statement, the Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has warned that Ghana risks being labelled a “Cocaine Coast” if allegations surrounding suspicious international flights are not addressed swiftly and thoroughly.

CDM cautioned that lax oversight or the appearance of it could result in increased scrutiny of Ghanaian travellers and exports, a potential drop in investor confidence, and reputational damage on the international stage.

“Ghana must not become a permissive corridor for narcotic trafficking,” the group asserted.

“We advise the government to act decisively to protect the nation’s integrity.”

The CDM reiterated its call for full disclosure from the Civil Aviation Authority and National Security Secretariat, and for Parliament to conduct a transparent inquiry with support from international partners if necessary.

Also, CDM criticised the conduct of Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, describing his recent derogatory remarks towards Rev. Ntim Fordjour as “a stain on the dignity of the presidency.”

In a statement on Sunday, CDM described Mr Kwakye Ofosu’s comment toward his colleague, MP and Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee, as “appalling,” “crude,” and a “stain on the dignity of the Presidency.”

According to the group, the insult, made via social media, violates not only the ethical expectations of public officers but also Parliamentary Standing Orders, which prohibit the use of offensive and derogatory language.

“Mr. Kwakye Ofosu represents not just himself or his political party but the Presidency,” the statement read.

“His behaviour is a stain on the dignity of that high office. It brings the Presidency into disrepute and threatens the values of civil discourse in our democratic tradition.”

The insult came amid rising tension over serious allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering involving aircraft that transited through Ghanaian airspace.

Rev. Fordjour has been one of the most vocal figures demanding transparency, citing constitutional provisions that empower Parliament to provide oversight, particularly in matters of national security.

The CDM defended Fordjour’s right to raise questions, calling it a legitimate exercise of parliamentary responsibility.

“His concerns should not be summarily dismissed or politicised. Rather, they should be subjected to objective scrutiny through institutional channels.”

The group further demanded a public apology from Mr. Kwakye Ofosu to Rev. Fordjour and the nation, and urged President John Dramani Mahama to discipline his appointee.

“Leadership must reflect discipline, humility, and statesmanship, especially in moments of national uncertainty.”

The CDM also called on government agencies, including National Security and Civil Aviation Authorities, to release all relevant flight and cargo records regarding the suspicious aircraft and allow for an impartial investigation, potentially with international oversight.

“This is not a moment for showmanship and insults. It is a moment for facts, transparency, and the rule of law,” the statement added.

Reverend Fordjour has not publicly responded to the insult but has reiterated the need for a full probe, saying Ghana must not become a safe corridor for transnational criminal activity.

As political tempers rise, CDM is urging calm, cooperation, and integrity: “Ghana is bigger than any individual or political party. Let us rise above politics and pursue the truth.”

This follows an alleged drug trafficking and money laundering involving two aircraft that passed through Ghana.

The public spat saw both figures accuse each other of diverting attention from serious national issues and resorting to personal insults in the process.

The clash began when Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the first to strike, called Mr Fordjour a “clown” in response to criticisms of the government’s handling of high-profile alleged drug busts, money laundering activities, and suspicious flights.

Rev Fordjour had just stormed away from JoyNews’ Newsfile on the same matter where he had debated NDC Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, in another heated argument.

On the programme, Mr Gyamfi had called for the arrest of Rev. Fordjour, insisting he must substantiate his claims or face legal consequences.

Mr Gyamfi argued that in other jurisdictions, such serious allegations against a sitting government would not go unpunished if found to be false.

“In other jurisdictions, he would have been blacklisted.

He stressed that if the MP refuses to honour a National Security invitation, he should be arrested and compelled to provide evidence to support his claims.

“If he doesn’t honour the invitation [by National Security] to him and he thinks that he can hide behind his parliamentary privileges, he lie bad. Because he will be arrested. Some of us will insist that he is arrested and you must substantiate that.”

But it appears the Assin South MP had more on his plate despite storming off the show during a brief break after suggesting that he had not been treated fairly.

On X, Mr Ofosu accused Rev Fordjour of being involved in spreading misinformation and misleading the public, calling the parliamentarian’s comments unsubstantiated and irresponsible.

“What a clown!” Mr Ofosu tweeted. “You have no proof, no basis, and cannot show same in even a thousand years. Even when clear facts are presented to you, you still remain pigheaded in your lies. That is being a clown, my friend!” he wrote.

However, Mr Fordjour quickly hit back, escalating the argument with scathing remarks about the Minister’s handling of ongoing investigations into Ghana’s involvement in cocaine trafficking and financial crimes.

He accused Mr Ofosu of being emotionally invested in shielding alleged drug cartels and money launderers from prosecution, thus undermining legitimate oversight efforts.

“When cocaine and money laundering activities are exposed and questioned, you expose your emotional connections to these transnational crimes, shield cocaine cartels and money launderers from prosecution, and resort to insults!” Rev Fordjour retorted.

He also added “Instead of providing answers to the high-profile cocaine busts, money laundering and suspicious flights, you’re here using 78.8 million of Ghanaian taxpayers’ money to peddle insults! Where is the cocaine and laundered money, Felix, my good friend?”

Mr Ofosu also pointed out the Minister’s lack of response to the real issues, instead accusing him of deflecting attention from the serious matters at hand by engaging in baseless personal attacks.

“You are wasting everyone’s time by debasing Parliamentary oversight to peddle infantile lies!” Mr Ofosu continued.

“You have no proof, no basis, and cannot show the truth in even a thousand years.”

Meanwhile, security analyst, Dr. Kwesi Aning, is worried over how sensitive security-related information is being handled by some Members of Parliament.

Dr. Aning, speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, noted that while security oversight is important, such issues must be approached with care and professionalism, especially by individuals with security clearance.

“What I mean for Kofi, and I can do that as a civil society activist and as scholars, but as a Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Committee on Defense and Interior with oversight responsibilities for a lot of our security institutions, and hopefully having security clearance… Such information must be handled differently,” Dr. Aning said.

He further criticised what he described as the politicisation of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament.

“And I think we need to discuss, elevate the conversation, as to how people in sensitive positions, who have clearance and may, because of that clearance, have access to information that is useful to securing our space to handle that information,” he added on Saturday, April 5.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, April 5, Gyamfi commended the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, for his transparency and proactive approach in handling the issue.

He praised the Minister not only for overseeing the investigations conducted by the committee but also for escalating the matter to the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) for further investigation.

“This is mind-boggling, this is completely unacceptable, and I’m happy that the Minister for Energy has been transparent and determined to get to the bottom of this,” Gyamfi said.

He added, “I am pleased that he has gone beyond the committee’s investigations and has written to the NIB to take this matter up.”

However, Gyamfi made it clear that neither the NDC nor the public will tolerate any delays or excuses in resolving the matter.

“We do not want any excuses,” he stressed. “The NIB must provide us with clear timelines. This cannot be treated as business as usual. The people deserve answers, and the law must be allowed to take its course.”

Gyamfi demanded to know who was responsible for the discrepancies, particularly those who may have breached public procurement laws during the awarding of contracts related to the missing containers.

“Let’s get to the bottom of this matter,” Gyamfi said. “We need to know who is responsible for this serious lapse. It’s time for the law of this country to work, and we will continue to push for transparency and accountability at every level.”

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Rev. Fordjour alleged that the Presidency is gagging relevant state institutions, preventing them from carrying out independent investigations and sharing credible information with the public.

He suggested this interference points to a possible cover-up as they may be hiding something.

“The Presidency gagging the security agencies from doing their work, investigating and communicating the outcome to the public, and hijacking communication on this specific security matter goes to suggest there’s something they are hiding,” he said in an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, April 5.

His comments come after the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications dismissed claims he made regarding alleged drug trafficking and money laundering involving two aircraft that passed through Ghana.

In an explainer posted on social media, Felix Kwakye Ofosu described Mr Fordjour’s allegations as baseless, accusing him of engaging in deliberate disinformation to undermine public confidence in the government.

According to him, the facts on the matter completely contradict Mr Fordjour’s claims.

However, Mr Fordjour questioned the accuracy of information put out by government communicators regarding the origin and purpose of the aircraft, stating that some of the details provided were false.

He maintained that the government’s handling of the issue raises more questions than answers, reinforcing the need for full disclosure and transparency.

This follows concerns raised by the Minority in Parliament over the activities of the aircraft in Ghana. Rev. Fordjour alleged that an air ambulance and a private jet might have been involved in drug trafficking or money laundering, a claim that JoyNews cannot independently confirm.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, Rev. Fordjour strongly refuted the claims made by Kwakye Ofosu, describing them as unreliable.

“The response that Kwakye Ofosu put out there is simply not credible. The itinerary of the flight is inaccurate,” Rev. Fordjour said.

He further explained that the situation was worsened by the swift intervention of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), which immediately politicized the issue and sought to debunk the original information.

Rev. Fordjour pointed to JoyNews’ efforts to fact-check the details, claiming that the station independently verified the itinerary.

“When I initially raised the matter, the NDC quickly came in and politicised it,” Rev. Fordjour said. “However, your own station, JoyNews, took the trouble to verify the itinerary and confirmed that indeed, these two flights had entered the country.”

He stressed that this verification from a major news outlet further highlighted the inaccuracies in Kwakye Ofosu’s claims.

Ntim Fordjour must be arrested – Sammy Gyamfi

Ntim Fordjour threatens to sue Kwakye Ofosu [Video]

Sammy Gyamfi, National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), called for the arrest of Rev. Fordjour, insisting that he must substantiate his claims or face legal consequences. Gyamfi argued that in other jurisdictions, such serious allegations against a sitting government would not go unpunished if found to be false.

“In other jurisdictions, he would have been blacklisted,” Gyamfi said, adding that if the MP refuses to honor a National Security invitation, he should be arrested and compelled to provide evidence.

“If he doesn’t honor the invitation [by National Security] to him and he thinks he can hide behind his parliamentary privileges, he’s in trouble. Some of us will insist that he is arrested and must substantiate that.”

However, the Ranking Member on the Defence Committee, Rev. Fordjour, was undeterred.

“Sammy, I dare you to call them to come and arrest me right here in the show,” he retorted.

The debate follows the Minority’s demand for transparency from National Security over the matter, after an air ambulance and a private jet reportedly stayed in Ghana for several days before departing for Gran Canaria, a Spanish island.

Rev. Fordjour, citing intelligence, claimed the aircraft might have been transporting illicit substances, including cocaine and large sums of U.S. currency.

Government officials, including the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, have dismissed the allegations as baseless, accusing the MP of spreading disinformation without verification.

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The Minority in Parliament has demanded full disclosure from National Security regarding two flights — an air ambulance and a private jet — that landed in Ghana in early March and later departed for Gran Canaria on March 25.

Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee, John Ntim Fordjour, raised concerns about the purpose and cargo of the flights, suspecting potential drug trafficking or money laundering. He called for authorities to reveal the contents of the aircraft.

In response, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, dismissed the allegations as baseless.

He accused Rev. Fordjour of spreading deliberate disinformation to undermine the government, asserting that both aircraft were in Ghana for legitimate reasons, underwent full security checks, and contained no illegal substances.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, April 5, Bentil warned that while the government’s explanation may seem sufficient, it could “easily be a cover-up,” given Ghana’s troubled history with drug trafficking. He emphasized that drug dealers are not naive and such explanations could be a façade.

He also reminded listeners of Ghana’s dark past in the narcotics trade, a history that once led to the country being blacklisted internationally, urging that Rev. Ntim Fordjour’s claims should not be dismissed.

Bentil further stressed the importance of treating Rev. Fordjour — who raised the alarm — as a whistleblower who deserves protection, not hostility.

He cited his own experience in the Achimota Forest land saga, where he faced threats of arrest for alleged falsehoods when raising concerns.

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Speaking during a discussion on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, Mr. Gyamfi stated that the MP’s claims lacked evidence and amounted to political propaganda.

He criticized the Minority in Parliament for what he described as an irresponsible approach to oversight, particularly in matters of national security.

“You have lied, you have proven to be totally reckless and irresponsible, and if you had a conscience, you would be apologizing for that lie,” he said.

According to Mr. Gyamfi, the Minority’s press conference was not based on verified intelligence but on unfounded suspicions.

He argued that no proper checks were conducted before making the allegations public and questioned the rationale behind expecting state resources to investigate unverified claims.

Mr. Gyamfi also challenged the inconsistency in the MP’s statements. While the Minority initially claimed to have intelligence regarding the aircraft, Rev. Fordjour later referred to the matter as mere suspicion, raising doubts about the credibility of the allegations.

He further noted that even after President John Mahama directed that the matter be investigated, the MP failed to provide any substantive evidence when the opportunity arose, citing a lack of an invitation to share his information.

The development comes amid ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the two aircraft, including an air ambulance and a private jet, which remained in Ghana for several days before flying to Gran Canaria in March.

Meanwhile, security analyst Dr. Kwesi Aning has expressed concerns over how sensitive security-related information is being handled by some Members of Parliament.

Dr. Aning, speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, emphasized the importance of security oversight but cautioned that such issues must be addressed with professionalism, particularly by individuals with security clearance.

“What I mean for Kofi, and I can do that as a civil society activist and as scholars, but as a Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Committee on Defense and Interior with oversight responsibilities for many of our security institutions, and hopefully having security clearance… Such information must be handled differently,” Dr. Aning said.

He further criticized the politicization of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament.

“And I think we need to discuss, elevate the conversation, as to how people in sensitive positions, who have clearance and may, because of that clearance, have access to information that is useful to securing our space, should handle that information,” he added on Saturday, April 5.

Dr. Aning’s comments come in the wake of controversy sparked by Rev. Fordjour’s claims that two suspicious aircraft—a private jet and an air ambulance—departed Ghana for Gran Canaria, allegedly carrying cash and possibly illicit substances.

The allegations have raised concerns about potential drug trafficking and money laundering activities.

However, the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed the claims as baseless. In a statement, he confirmed that while the flights in question did occur, there is no evidence to support the assertion that they were involved in any criminal activity.

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Richard Boadi nominated Kumasi Metro CEO

The nominee hails from Busunu, a suburb of the municipality, and is described in political circles as a gifted grassroots politician.

He is one of the early cadres and a member of the Democratic Youth League of Ghana (DYLG), known as a good listener, a committed NDC party man, and a unifier.

As a grassroots figure, Mr. Castro combined his professional and political careers during his first posting to Pepuso, a suburb of Buipe, on 10th October 1994. There, he served as headteacher and the sole teacher handling four classes.

Despite his workload, he accepted to serve his party as the polling station secretary for Pepuso, which is now within the Central Gonja District.

He was later transferred to his hometown, Busunu, where he became secretary to the Presbyterian Primary Temporary Polling Station and later the Busunu D/A Polling Station. He held this position until the 2012 and 2016 elections, when he contested the Damongo Constituency parliamentary primaries on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

He, however, lost both attempts to Adam Mutawakilu, also known as Garlus, who is now the Managing Director of the Ghana Water Company Limited.

Undeterred by his defeats, Mr. Castro ran again—this time for the position of constituency secretary of Damongo—but lost to the current secretary of the party, Braimah Alhassan.

According to some youth around him, his losses have never discouraged him from working for the NDC in the region.

Having lived and worked in the area for thirty-one (31) years—since 1994—within the former Damongo District (now comprising Central and North Gonja), Mr. Yakubu Yussif Castro is widely regarded as the right person to manage the relatively tense political and chieftaincy atmosphere in Damongo.

He is also expected to address the recurring annual floods in Damongo and Busunu while managing the expectations and concerns of the youth.

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Ntim Fordjour threatens to sue Kwakye Ofosu [Video]

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu said the claims were baseless and a waste of time.

“If I were President Mahama, I would have ignored noisemaker Ntim Fordjour. He is just lying and wasting everyone’s time. I respect him as my friend, brother, and neighbour, but he is making baseless allegations with no evidence,” he said.

Rev. Ntim Fordjour alleged that two flights—AirMed flight NH23AM and Cavok Air private jet Antonov AN 12 B—landed in Ghana between March 20 and March 25, 2025, carrying suspected cocaine and an undisclosed amount of cash. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has since called for investigations.

However, Kwakye Ofosu dismissed the claims, arguing that if the NPP had any proof, they would have presented it publicly.

“If he had evidence, NPP people who love propaganda would have shown videos and pictures. They wouldn’t even wait for an invitation,” he stated.

He also revealed that after the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) invited Rev. Ntim Fordjour for questioning, the MP refused, claiming he was speaking on behalf of a parliamentary committee.

“As we speak, after initially avoiding the invitation, the NIB has now written to the Speaker of Parliament to release him for investigations. When he goes, he should go and waste their time like he is doing to us now,” Kwakye Ofosu added.

He noted that MP cannot make unsubstantiated allegations and escape scrutiny.

“You cannot just wake up and throw out accusations that a plane carried cocaine when you have no evidence to support your claims. We cannot tolerate this,” he insisted.

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In an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Dankwah emphasized that Global InfoAnalytics is an independent polling organization with no political affiliation and operates without influence from any political agenda.

“We are pollsters, and whether they like it or not, they should accept it. They are not going to tell us how to do our work,” he said.

Mr. Dankwah explained that Global InfoAnalytics conducts polls for professional purposes and shares the findings with the public, regardless of any criticism.

“We are not a think tank or a pressure group; we are a company, and we are not doing anyone’s bidding. If you don’t want to listen to us, just put it in the bin,” he added.

He further defended the credibility of the firm, citing their strong track record of accurate predictions. “During the 2024 elections, they attacked us, saying I was mad and had an agenda against the NPP. But our predictions—from the regional and national levels to the constituencies—were over 90 percent accurate,” he said.

As an example, he referred to the Dome Kwabenya constituency, where critics dismissed their prediction that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) would win.

“They told us we were mad, but in the end, who won? The NDC. They should learn from this,” Mr. Dankwah remarked.

A recent post-election poll by Global InfoAnalytics revealed that 68% of respondents hold former President Nana Akufo-Addo responsible for the NPP’s defeat in the 2024 general elections.

He cited the Dome Kwabenya constituency as an example, recalling how critics dismissed their prediction that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) would win the seat.

“They told us we were mad, but in the end, who won? The NDC. They should learn from this,” he added.

Meanwhile, a post-election poll conducted by Global InfoAnalytics has revealed that 68% of respondents hold former President Nana Akufo-Addo responsible for the NPP’s defeat in the 2024 general elections.

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Critics have questioned the timing of the recent poll conducted by his outfit, but Mr. Dankwah defended the early release of the survey, stating that people’s views will evolve.

“At every point in time, people will have a view, and as time goes on, that view may change. We want to know from the beginning, where were you, and now, where have you gotten?” he questioned.

Mr. Dankwah went on to point out that one of the major problems in Ghana, and Africa in general, is the lack of interest in tracking numbers from the start.

“The problem we have in this country and Africa in general is that we don’t care to know what the numbers are from the beginning,” he explained.

He made these comments during an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem.

His comments came after a new poll by Global InfoAnalytics revealed that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the leading contender for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer position ahead of the 2028 general election.

The survey found that 48% of Ghanaians prefer Dr. Bawumia to lead the party again, placing him firmly at the forefront of the NPP leadership race.

The poll shows Dr. Bawumia has a significant lead over other potential candidates. Kennedy Agyapong, who contested in the 2024 NPP primaries, garnered 25%, while Dr. Osei Adutwum secured 13%. The remaining candidates collectively earned 14%.

But Mr. Dankwah stressed the importance of knowing the baseline numbers early on.

“If you are in 2024 and tomorrow the number drops or goes high, you will know. You must know the baseline to assess whether you are improving or not. This is like a baseline to help and guide everyone.”

He also pointed out that others are already actively campaigning for the 2026 flagbearership, questioning whether they have been told to stop because it’s too early.

“That is life, and people will plan their future from day one. It’s natural, so we just have to accept the realities,” he said.

Mr. Dankwah noted that as pollsters, their job is to gauge the sentiments of the people and understand what they think at different points in time.

“We are not doing this for them (the critics), but we believe there is value in what we are doing for our own work, not for them.”

He also referenced the United States, where discussions about the 2028 presidential race have already begun.

“Even in America, they are asking who will run for 2028. So, we don’t want to ignore what the numbers say. You must know the baseline to guide everyone. People are already campaigning, and people plan their lives from day one. As pollsters, we just want to know what the people say,” he added.

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In a Facebook post on Friday, April 4, Dr Boamah called on the Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee to “repent”, describing his claims as baseless and politically motivated.

Rev. Ntim Fordjour had earlier demanded a security briefing regarding two aircraft—AirMed Flight N823AM and Cavok Air Antonov An-12B—which he alleged carried cocaine and cash into the country.

His allegations triggered President John Dramani Mahama to order a probe. However, the Government Communications Minister has revealed that Mr Fordjour was invited to assist with investigations but failed to honour the invitation.

The government’s Minister of State in charge of Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, also accused Mr Fordjour of fabricating the claims for political purposes.

Mr Fordjour has since rejected the allegation, insisting no security agency has ever invited him for questioning and challenging the government to produce evidence of such an invitation.

Dr Omane Boamah, however, remained resolute, asserting that Mr Fordjour’s actions stem from “hatred for President Mahama’s administration” and a desire to curry favour within his party.

“Rev. Ntim Fordjour must desist from reckless allegations founded on untruths,” he wrote. “You know you’ve lied! You also know vivid video evidence has exposed your lies about the said aircrafts. Ntim Fordjour, repent!”

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A statement signed by the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, revealed that the MPs are Mustapha Ussif, representing Yagaba Kubori, and Kwame Asare, popularly known as A Plus, representing Gomoa Central.

The meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM, and will take place in the Sir Emmanuel Charles Quist Conference Room at the Office of the Speaker.

The statement further indicated that the meeting will be conducted under specific conditions, advising both MPs to have their legal representatives present.

Additionally, Parliament has instructed NIB officials to coordinate with the Legal Services Office upon their arrival.

Read the full statement below

Speaking on the matter in an interview on Adom FM Dwaso Nsem show, A Plus stated that if anyone observes something suspicious, it is their duty to speak out and investigate.

“If someone sees something, then they have to investigate. There’s nothing wrong with pointing out something you’ve noticed. If they put an apple here, no matter the distraction, it will remain an apple,” he noted.

A Plus defended former President John Mahama, adding that he is someone who would even call for investigations when necessary.

“Mahama is a good human being. He’s been there, has the experience, and is ready to build the country,” he lauded.

In response to the NPP’s recent vocal outbursts, A Plus questioned their sudden confidence now that they are no longer in power.

“NPP people now have the courage to speak now that they have left power. I don’t know where they got their confidence from. Now that the NDC is in power, the NPP has started talking. They’re just talking, lying, and throwing dust into our eyes,” he claimed.

The lawmaker stated that Ghanaians should not take the NPP seriously, as he believes they are simply trying to distract the public with unnecessary noise.

“They have suddenly found their voice. If they have issues, they should go ahead and do the needful, but the talking is too much. Now they are seeing how it feels to be in opposition after making things difficult for Ghanaians during their tenure.”

The issue of the suspicious flights has sparked debate, particularly after the Assin South MP, Ntim Fordjour, raised concerns over two flights – AirMed flight NH23AM and Cavok Air private jet Antonov AN 12 B – which allegedly landed in Ghana between March 20 and March 25, 2025.

These flights are suspected of carrying cocaine and an undisclosed amount of cash, and the NPP has called for investigations into the matter.

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Addressing the issue in a press statement, the Ranking Member of the Committee on Trade, Industry, and Tourism,  Michael Okyere Baafi, stated that Ghana finds itself among other African countries affected by the tariff escalation, which was announced by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

According to Mr. Baafi, the U.S. cited unfair trade practices as justification for the tariff, pointing to Ghana’s 17% average tariff on U.S. imports.

He, however, noted that it remains unclear whether this policy affects Ghana’s participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

Ghana is currently one of 35 Sub-Saharan African countries benefiting from AGOA, which grants duty-free access for about 6,700 products to the U.S. market.

Some of the key products covered under AGOA include textiles and clothing, motor vehicle parts, agricultural products such as nuts and yams, leather goods, and machinery.

Mr. Baafi emphasized that the newly imposed 10% tariff could significantly reduce the price competitiveness of Ghanaian exports, particularly in industries such as apparel, cocoa processing, and yam exports.

The apparel sector, which employs over 5,000 young Ghanaians, is expected to be among the hardest hit.

The Minority further criticized the government’s approach to trade and export policies, arguing that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration has failed to prioritize export growth.

The statement noted that under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the One District One Factory (1D1F) initiative helped Ghana expand its exports, including iron rods, ceramic tiles, and plastics to the ECOWAS region.

“The current government has no response to the tariff slap. It has no specialized programme or policy to support exporters, expand production, or diversify markets,” the statement read.

The Minority Caucus proposed several measures to address the situation, including:

• Diversifying export markets by prioritizing AfCFTA and expanding manufactured exports to African countries.

• Providing government support for exporters, including financial assistance and market intelligence to mitigate the impact of the tariffs.

• Encouraging product diversification and value addition to reduce reliance on raw material exports.

• Engaging in diplomatic negotiations with the U.S. government to clarify the policy’s impact on AGOA and explore possible exemptions.

• Enhancing Ghana’s trade competitiveness by improving infrastructure and reducing production costs.

• Ensuring policy clarity on export strategies and committing to the full implementation of the National AfCFTA Policy Framework.

The Minority Caucus urged the government to take swift action to prevent further economic losses and protect the livelihoods of exporters affected by the tariffs.

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I wish to build a wall around Gomoa Central – A…

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, A Plus accused NPP members of ignoring public concerns during their tenure but now making noise on national issues after their defeat in the 2024 elections.

According to him, this newfound confidence is baffling and irritating.

“Suddenly, the NPP has found their voice after leaving power, and the NDC is sitting aloof. Just three days ago, people were being arrested for expressing their views. But now, I don’t even know where their confidence is coming from, and it makes me angry,” he fumed.

He also criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for being passive despite being in power. “Very soon, they [NPP] will sit on radio and TV and start crying that times are hard, but they suffocated and gagged people when they were in power,” he added.

His comments come amid controversy surrounding two aircraft suspected of engaging in illicit activities in Ghana.

Assin South MP, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, who is the Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee, has alleged that an air ambulance and a private jet may have been involved in drug trafficking or money laundering.

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According to him, if he had his way and resources, he would build a wall around Gomoa Central to show the country how serious they are about progress.

“If we had our way, we would build a wall around Gomoa Central. That way, before anyone enters Gomoa, they’ll see that we’re serious about our development,” he said in an interview on Adom FMs Dwaso Nsem morning Show.

He stressed his determination to make Gomoa Central a symbol of progress, saying, “I want to make Gomoa Central a new Ghana.”

A Plus, a first-time MP who ran as an independent candidate, also expressed his readiness to work with former President John Dramani Mahama to “reset” the country.

“I am ready to join President Mahama to reset the country—not just through infrastructure, but by resetting the mindset of the people. We’re very serious about this,” he added.

Reflecting on his first term in office, A Plus stated that the people of Gomoa Central voted for him because of the work he had done for the constituency.

“As an independent candidate, I did a lot for Gomoa Central, even before the election and that’s why the people voted for me. I’m committed to doing even more to ensure the growth of Gomoa Central,” he said.

He continued, “We’re going to show the country that Gomoa Central is ready for change, and I’ll do everything I can to help make that happen.”

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His sole focus, he noted is on the development of his constituency.

“I don’t like any appointment. My focus is solely on Gomoa Central. I don’t want anything to distract me from the work I have to do for my people,” A Plus as he is popularly known made this known in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show.

A Plus also recalled a conversation with President John Mahama , where he made it clear that he did not want to be a minister.

“It’s not for you to tell Mahama or anyone else to give you an appointment. I am here to serve my people in Gomoa Central.

“I told the President, ‘I don’t want to be a minister. I want to focus on my work as an MP,” he declared.

Reflecting on his upbringing in Asebu, A Plus shared that he and his siblings had seen both struggle and comfort, which gave him insight into the challenges faced by those who are less fortunate.

“Growing up at Asebu, we saw a lot. Even those of us who had something, we felt the hardships. So, I understand how those who don’t have must feel,” he said.

As the MP for Gomoa Central, A Plus expressed his deep commitment to making a difference.

“As your brother, now an MP, I want to change the lives of the people of Gomoa Central. I will do whatever I can to alleviate the suffering of those who are struggling. I want to make sure that even those who don’t have, at least during my time, will have what they need,” he pledged.

He concluded by reiterating his commitment to his constituency, saying, “All my focus is on Gomoa Central. No distractions, no appointments. My work is for the people.”

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The poll sheds light on public sentiment following the party’s loss, with significant portions of voters also attributing blame to key figures within the government.

Among those surveyed, 40% blame former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta for the defeat, while 37% attribute it to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s presidential candidate and former Vice President.

Additionally, 33% hold Dr. Matthew Opoku-Prempeh responsible, while 32% point to other government appointees. Members of Parliament are also seen as part of the blame, with 25% of voters assigning responsibility to them.

The poll suggests that many voters viewed the performance of the Akufo-Addo-led government as a key factor in the NPP’s electoral loss. Issues like economic challenges, governance concerns, and public dissatisfaction may have contributed to the perception that the former President’s leadership played a pivotal role.

Interestingly, only 9% of respondents blame Kennedy Agyapong, who contested in the NPP’s primaries but did not lead the party into the elections. This indicates that, despite intra-party competition, most of the blame was directed at those directly associated with the government’s administration.

These findings highlight the complexities of voter sentiment and the significant challenges the NPP faces in rebuilding after its electoral defeat.

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He expressed that his competencies speak for themselves, adding that many people who recognize his skills and work have praised him.

“People know my competencies, and they will tell you when you’re doing well. Some may not be mainstream politicians, but they are political strategists who work and consult behind the scenes” he said in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Prof. Mensah.

He noted that when President John Mahama called him about the role, he did not hesitate to accept it but felt elated.

“When I was called, I thought, why not? I was elated” he said.

Prof. Mensah also mentioned his extensive experience in political consulting.

“I have consulted for political parties and politicians for many years. In 2008, I introduced political marketing, which I believed was a new dawn in political consulting.”

He note that his experience continued to grow, explaining that in 2013, he did consultation work for a Member of Parliament and has since worked with several other politicians.

Prof. Mensah believes that his competencies led to his appointment.

“Leadership is mindful of the qualities they need from people. My experience in consulting and leadership positions led me to these public roles” he added.

Asked whether he had worked for the President before his appointment, he clarified, “No, I have not worked directly for the President. But perhaps the leadership of the party has observed me, as I speak on political issues, and they know my worth.”

Regarding his current team, Prof. Mensah shared that GTDC currently has around 25 staff members.

While he said the team is working well, he acknowledged that more hands may be needed in the future.

“For now, the staff number is okay, and they are working hard, but in time, we may need more people.”

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I am around, but the committee never contacted me – Dubik…

During the confirmation process, Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu urged the assembly members to grant Mr. Klu Odikro their full support to ensure accelerated development in the district.

All 22 assembly members and government appointees cast their votes in favor of Mr. Klu Odikro, leading to his unanimous confirmation.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Alfred Klu Odikro expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC government for their trust in him. He pledged to serve the district diligently and support the party’s agenda to drive development in Agotime-Ziope.

“To begin with, I wish to respectfully extend my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama for nominating me as the District Chief Executive for our dear District. I am humbled by this opportunity and grateful for the confidence reposed in me. I assure you of my commitment and dedication towards the resetting agenda and the fulfillment of the aspirations of our people,” he stated.

He also thanked the assembly members for their overwhelming support, promising to work hand-in-hand with them to improve the living conditions of the people in the district.

“With your support and cooperation, we can enhance the conditions of life for our people. Let us embark on this new chapter with enthusiasm, dedication, and determination to improve the quality of life in Agotime-Ziope,” he added.

Mr. Klu Odikro extended his appreciation to the chiefs, elders, and people of Agotime-Ziope for their support, stating that he would rely on their counsel and wisdom in his leadership journey.

Additionally, he acknowledged the Member of Parliament for the area, Hon. Charles Agbeve, as well as the NDC leadership and rank and file for their unwavering support.

The newly confirmed DCE outlined his vision for the district, emphasizing education, healthcare, agriculture, road networks, and other key sectors as his priorities.

“We will implement strategies to ensure sustainable growth and development in Agotime-Ziope. I urge all citizens to play their part in the district’s progress. It is only through our collective efforts that we can achieve meaningful development,” he appealed.

Finally, Mr. Klu Odikro reassured the assembly members and residents that he would work tirelessly to uplift the district, urging them to rally behind the assembly’s initiatives.

His confirmation marks the beginning of a new leadership era in Agotime-Ziope, with hopes for progress and development under his stewardship.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/i-am-around-but-the-committee-never-contacted-me-dubik-mahama-on-missing-ecg-containers-video/ Wed, 02 Apr 2025 17:37:29 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2521023 Former Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Samuel Dubik Mahama, has expressed frustration over not being contacted by the committee investigating the missing containers, despite his name being mentioned in the report.

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Mahama responded to allegations surrounding the missing containers, which contain critical electrical equipment intended for national power distribution.

He questioned the rationale behind the committee’s failure to reach out to him.

“The investigative team never contacted me, but my name was mentioned in the report. Meanwhile, I have not gone anywhere and won’t go anywhere, so what was the rationale behind that?” he quizzed.

Mr. Mahama further noted that he would have gladly participated in the investigation if he had been contacted.

“If they wanted to do a thorough investigation, they should have called me. I am around, and I would have worked with the committee if they had reached out to me,” he stated.

In regard to the missing containers, Mr. Mahama stressed the ease of tracking international shipments.

“If you input the container number, you can easily locate where the container is. Let’s make sure we address the container issue properly,” he said, underscoring the importance of properly investigating the logistics involved.

He also expressed concern about the lack of direct communication from the committee.

“We are all humans serving the country. If they wanted a holistic job, they should have spoken to me directly. Why would I not subject myself to interrogation if indeed I was contacted? But they didn’t call me. I would have gladly cooperated,” he bemoaned.

The scandal, which has sent shockwaves through the country, involves the disappearance of containers containing equipment meant to support ECG operations.

Reports have revealed procurement irregularities and questionable transactions within ECG, with allegations that some government officials and ECG executives were aware of the improper handling of the containers but failed to act.

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Rev. Fordjour claimed that an AirMed flight made a transit in Ghana carrying suspicious cargo, suspected to be cocaine and cash in US dollars.

In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Coker responded to these allegations, saying, “Sometimes you have to do proper investigations rather than throwing dust into our eyes.”

He stated that accusations should be backed by concrete proof, urging those making claims to provide the evidence.

“If you are alleging, then prove it. You claim to have information, so bring it and stop asking the airport company to investigate it for you.”

Mr. Coker also criticized the way allegations were being handled.

“Planes land all the time, so if you say a plane has arrived with suspicious cargo, you need to prove it. You can’t just make claims without backing them up.”

He further noted that the authorities should not be blamed for investigative work that was the responsibility of the person making the allegations.

“If you have the information, bring it to the relevant agencies. No one will attack you. Prove what you’re saying and stop making baseless allegations.”

In his view, these allegations were often made without solid evidence, describing such actions as “phishing” for attention.

“They just want to be heard, but in the end, it’s much ado about nothing. You have all the details of the plane when it lands. So, if something suspicious happens, there’s no way it could go unnoticed. At least one of the people unloading the cargo would give a tip-off if something was amiss.”

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama, has directed a comprehensive investigation into the allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering involving the suspicious flights at Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

President Mahama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency and urgency in addressing the issue.

But Mr. Coker dared those making the allegations to provide proof.

“You can’t just say a plane landed with cocaine without offering any evidence. Come and prove it,” he urged.

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National Security’s Raid on 12 containers with Gold and Cash

On February 9, 2025, National Security conducted a major raid on a warehouse in Sapeiman, Ga South Municipality in Accra where they uncovered twelve 20-foot containers filled with gold bars and unspecified amount of cash in various denominations of US dollars and Ghana cedis worth over several billions of dollars.

This operation was widely carried by various media outlets in Ghana.

Nearly two months after this operation, National Security has failed to brief the public on the status of their investigations relating to the culprits behind the billions of gold and cash stashed in the twelve containers and failed to disclose the actual quantity of gold.

The specific amount of amount money retrieved during the operation and what the state intends to do with gold and cash currently in the custody of National Security.

The Minority Caucus, as responsible opposition as we are, in absolute circumspection, have been patient and given reasonably two clear months for National Security to communicate status of their investigation with the public albeit without any information from National Security.

The legitimate question Ghanaians are asking is: does the government through National Security intend to divert the twelve containers of gold and cash, only to turn around to deceive the public in the end?

The public is hereby assured that the Mighty Minority will not rest until credible communication on the status of the twelve containers filled with gold and cash is transparently made to the general public by the Minister for Interior with additional responsibility for National Security and culprits prosecuted.

AirMed Flight and Cavok Air private jet transporting suspected Cocaine and Cash

Ladies and gentlemen, on another security matter related to our airspace, the Minority Caucus calls on National Security to as a matter of urgency, make public the content of cargo suspected to be cocaine and cash, transported into the country by two suspicious flights namely AirMed flight N823AM and Cavok Air private jet, Antonov An-12B which landed on the tarmac of Kotoka International Airport in March 2025, from Gran Canaria; an island of Spain and departed to the same Gran Canaria days after their arrival.

Reliable intelligence intercepted by the Minority Caucus indicates that on March 20, 2025, AirMed flight N823AM which is an air ambulance designed specifically to carry patients, landed at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Ghana and remained in the country for five days before departing at 0100 hours (1am) on March 25, 2025 back to Gran Canaria.

Our intelligence further posits that no patient was transported by the said AirMed flight neither to nor from Accra. There is no evidence of medical referral or patient accompanying or on board the flight on either legs of the flight.

We are reliably informed that contrary to the expectation that the AirMed flight would carry patients, the purpose for which it was designed and operates, it rather on this occasion, carried suspicious cargo suspected to be cocaine and cash in US dollars.

In a related development, a private jet Cavok Air Antonov An-12B also landed at Kotoka International Airport on March 12, 2025 from the same island of Spain; Gran Canaria and remained in country for thirteen days and departed at 0640 hours (6:40am) on March 25, 2025, to Gran Canaria; the very day AirMed flight also departed to Gran Canaria.

While it is intriguing that the two suspicious flights would depart to the same location on the same day, even more intriguing is the cargo suspiciously transported by these aircrafts to and from Gran Canaria, an island known for its notoriety in drug trafficking and money laundering.

We call on National Security to make full disclosure of the content of the cargo carried by these two aircrafts into the country as well as the cargo carried out of the country by the same aircrafts to Gran Canaria, consistent with the principle of transparency, in our collective quest to fighting drug trafficking and money laundering.

Consistent with the transparency demonstrated to the general public by security agencies as evident in the media reportage carried on March 4, 2025 when National Investigations Bureau intercepted $350 million worth of cocaine in Cape Coast, it is the expectation of the Minority Caucus that transparency in such critical matters of airspace security is upheld in order to assure our citizens of the continued security of our airspace.

The Minority Caucus is concerned about the sudden incidents of drug trafficking and money laundering rearing its ugly head in the country, barely three months after the NPP handed over power to NDC. 

Reported Pirate Attack

The Ghana Armed Forces on March 29, 2025 issued a Press Release in which the public was informed of investigations being conducted by the Ghana Navy into a suspected pirate attack on a Ghanaian registered fishing vessel, MENGXIN 1, which attack took place in Ghanaian waters on the evening of Thursday March 27, 2025.

The press release further provided that at approximately 1753 hours, reports indicated that seven armed individuals suspected to be pirates boarded the ship and fired warning shots, prompting several crew members to seek cover in safe area.

The pirates allegedly stayed on board for three hours after assembling all on deck and confiscating their mobile phones. The Captain, Chief Mate and Chief Engineer of the vessel, all Chinese nationals were allegedly kidnapped by the pirates remain missing.

While we urge full scale investigation into the incident to apprehend the pirates, we call on the government to resource the Ghana Navy with the required complement of Offshore Patrol Vessels to fully equip the Navy to more comprehensively and effectively safeguard our waters. on March 29, 2025.

Ladies and Gentlemen of the press, you will recall the diligent attempt of the erstwhile government to procure two Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Ghana Navy some time in 2024.

This plan in its final stages, was fiercely opposed by the NDC who called for the process to be terminated. Subsequently, the process of purchase was thus aborted.

As pirates are aware of Ghana Navy’s lack of Offshore Patrol Vessels, the vulnerabilities in the security of our waters are likely to be exploited by pirates.

To strengthen security on our waters and serve as deterrence, we strongly urge the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Defence, to prioritize the purchase of two Offshore Patrol Vessels and recommence the processes for parliamentary approval and subsequent purchase of same.

We on the Minority side, pledge our support for the process to become successful.

Conclusion

To conclude, Ghana in the past eight years, had been ranked favorably by notable global organizations as the second most peaceful country in Africa in respect of crime rate and globally, ahead of Australia and Canada.

It is therefore imperative that under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, Ghana continues to be safe and not degenerate into a safe haven for pirates, drug trafficking and money laundering.

Thank you.

Speaking before Parliament was adjourned indefinitely, Speaker Bagbin explained that the award scheme is designed to promote integrity and foster accountability across Ghana.

“The National Integrity Award scheme is a crucial step in promoting integrity in the country by recognising and honouring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and the fight against corruption.

“By this initiative, we aim to inspire a national movement where integrity is not only expected but desired and rewarded,” Speaker `Bagbin stated.

In addition to the National Integrity Awards, he also introduced the “Vulture Award,” aimed at exposing and shaming corrupt public officials.

He further emphasised that while men and women of integrity will be celebrated, those with the lowest levels of integrity will be named and shamed.

“Apart from the National Integrity Award that will be given to men and women of integrity, there will also be what is termed the Vulture Award, which will be bestowed upon individuals considered to have the lowest levels of integrity in the country.”

Bagbin described the initiative as a transformative step in strengthening accountability and ethical leadership in the country.

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“I am just worried about the scanty information given because if you just write that something happened on Friday Ghanians need to know what happened on Friday and why she was rushed to the hospital” he argued.

He emphasised that, as a public figure, Opoku-Agyemang’s health status is of significant interest to the Ghanaian people, and nothing should be concealed about her condition.

“Once you put yourself for a political office, everything about you is no longer private, that is what we need to get straight” he argued.

“They came on the premise that they don’t see why government officials should go outside for treatment….have you forgotten what Okudzeto (MP for North Tongu and Foreign Affairs Minister) said, even the President (John Mahama) himself (when in opposition) saying they don’t see the reason going outside for treatment at the time in 2017 when Dr Bawumia has to go outside for treatment”

On Sunday, March 30, the office of the President stated that Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang had received medical treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) after suffering a sudden illness on Friday, 28th March 2025.

According to the statement, she attended UGMC on Saturday following the unexpected health incident.

In the petition, the executives outlined several concerns, questioning why the nomination process has been stalled despite following the laid-down selection procedures.

They stated that after the regional vetting, three candidates were shortlisted and subsequently vetted at the national level. However, the delay in nominating an MCE has left them struggling to understand the reasons behind the hold-up.

The executives emphasized that the shortlisted candidates fairly represent the constituency’s geographical, ethnic, and traditional council dynamics.

According to them, any attempt to nominate a candidate outside these three would alienate the party’s grassroots and potentially weaken its support base in the constituency.

They also raised concerns about rumors that a specific traditional council within the constituency is opposing the nomination of any of the three candidates on ethnic grounds. They argued that in other constituencies within the Bono East Region, both Members of Parliament (MPs) and Municipal/District Chief Executives (MMDCES) have come from the same ethnic background without issues.

They cited examples from Nkoranza South, Nkoranza North, Kintampo North, and Techiman North, questioning why a different standard is being applied to Atebubu-Amantin.

Furthermore, they warned against repeating the mistake of 2013, when the imposition of a District Chief Executive who was not the party’s choice led to the loss of the parliamentary seat in the 2016 elections.

They believe a similar situation could arise if their concerns are not addressed.

The executives also cautioned that grassroots members are preparing to stage a demonstration against the party’s leadership and the president in response to the delay.

They indicated that the uncertainty has created unnecessary tension in the constituency, which could result in divisions within the party if not resolved swiftly.

In their conclusion, they strongly urged the leadership to nominate one of the three shortlisted candidates, warning that any alternative decision could destabilize the party’s stronghold in the constituency.

Addressing a press briefing in Parliament on Friday, March 28, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin criticised the initiative, describing it as a “Galamsey Board” rather than a regulatory body.

“We’re all aware of the challenges we face as a nation, specifically on galamsey, I believe that galamsey became a major issue during the elections.

“Our friends who are now in government made some promises to the nation. Today, they are the apostles who are promoting galamsey. They are using their numbers to now establish what has become known as a Galamsey Board,” he stated.

Mr Afenyo-Markin argued that instead of prioritising investments in agriculture, women’s banking, and the much-publicised 24-hour economy policy, the government is diverting GH¢4.6 billion to small-scale miners, whom he described as galamsey operators.

“If you bring an enactment and you say your focus is on small-scale mining – all os us in this country know that small-scale mining is galamsey. So the question is – is this government really ready to fight galamsey?” he questioned.

The Minority Leader further expressed concerns that the government, through GoldBod, is monopolising gold purchases from small-scale miners while simultaneously providing them with financial support, which he believes contradicts the fight against illegal mining.

He reaffirmed the Minority’s commitment to holding the government accountable, stressing that they would not engage in mere opposition but would ensure that the NDC-led administration delivers on its promises.

“We told you something that with time, the true colours of this NDC will be known. I think today, we have all seen them.

“Let us assure you – we, the mighty minority, we are assuring you that we will continue to be constructive in our criticism, we will not criticise for the sake of criticising, but we will hold their (NDC/Majority) feet to the fire,” he added.