Ghanaian security operatives have arrested Bright Mensah Bonsu, the man at the center of a controversial attempt to sell off a prime diplomatic property belonging to Ghana’s High Commission in Lagos, Nigeria.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed the arrest in a Facebook statement, describing it as a significant breakthrough in a case that has sparked diplomatic concerns between Ghana and Nigeria.
According to the Minister, Bright Mensah Bonsu fraudulently received US$1.5 million in cash as a supposed first installment for the sale of the beachfront property, which had been valued at US$5.3 million. The transaction, however, was never declared to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and no portion of the funds was paid into government accounts.
Mensah Bonsu, who has identified himself as a special aide to the late Ghana High Commissioner to Nigeria, Alhaji Rashid Bawa, reportedly had no official position with either the Ministry or the High Commission. Yet, he was frequently seen in the company of the former envoy and had access to key documents related to the property.
The statement further reveals that he was issued a diplomatic passport on October 18, 2023, under questionable circumstances. Authorities are now investigating how he qualified for such a passport without holding any official government role.
“The Mahama administration will not shield anyone who played a role in this grand conspiracy,” the Foreign Minister emphasized, adding that the government is committed to retrieving the misappropriated funds and ensuring justice is served.
The incident has drawn the attention of Nigerian government officials and the would-be buyer, who have reportedly petitioned Ghana for intervention. The Foreign Minister assured stakeholders that Ghana remains committed to protecting its international reputation and maintaining strong bilateral ties with Nigeria.
“No diplomatic property belonging to the people of Ghana is for sale,” the Minister warned, adding that “severe consequences await anyone who tests our resolve.”
Criminal proceedings are expected to commence shortly, as investigations continue into the broader network behind the attempted sale.
Source : www.kumasimail.com
