Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has released documentary evidence supporting his allegations against the former Director-General of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Nana Attobrah Quaicoe, over the controversial acquisition of a prime state land in Cantonments, Accra.
In a detailed post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Mr. Ablakwa accused the former NIB boss of purchasing the land for GHS160,157.00 (approximately $11,000) — a price he described as “terribly insulting” compared to its market value of over $700,000 (GHS10.5 million). The MP attached documents from the Lands Commission as proof of his claims.
Allegations and Evidence
According to Mr. Ablakwa, the transaction was facilitated under President Akufo-Addo’s administration and involved a failure to comply with key legal requirements. He outlined the following allegations:
- Underpriced Purchase: Nana Attobrah Quaicoe allegedly bought the state land at a significantly undervalued price, raising questions about fairness and transparency.
- Market Value Discrepancy: The real conservative value of the land, estimated at $700,000, far exceeds the transaction price, suggesting potential loss to the state.
- Violation of Rezoning Laws: Mr. Ablakwa claims the government failed to comply with the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, 2016 (Act 925) by not seeking parliamentary approval during the rezoning process.
- Assign Intervention: He also alleged that Mr. Quaicoe used an intermediary to address concerns raised over the transaction.
The documents shared by Mr. Ablakwa appear to corroborate his claims, sparking outrage and renewed demands for accountability in the management of state assets.
In his post, Mr. Ablakwa reiterated his commitment to pushing for a Private Member’s Bill to prohibit politically exposed persons and political appointees from acquiring state assets. He emphasized the urgency of addressing what he termed “state capture” and restoring public confidence in governance.
“This is why I get even more convinced every passing day that my Private Member’s Bill seeking to prohibit political appointees and politically exposed persons from buying state assets must be passed without further delay — and this shall surely happen in this 9th Parliament,” he declared.
Mr. Ablakwa also expressed optimism about former President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for ending state capture, stating, “President Mahama gives us hope that the era of state capture is over!”
The allegations have sparked widespread debate, with many citizens and advocacy groups calling for an independent investigation into the transaction. Some have demanded that Nana Attobrah Quaicoe and others involved in the acquisition be held accountable if found culpable.
The release of the evidence adds to mounting pressure on the government to ensure transparency and fairness in the disposal of state assets. Meanwhile, Parliament is expected to deliberate on Mr. Ablakwa’s proposed legislation as part of broader efforts to curb corruption and promote accountability.
The controversy underscores ongoing concerns about governance, resource management, and the equitable treatment of public property in Ghana.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
