Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a prominent member of the Operational Research and Assessment Leadership (ORAL) Team, has revealed that the group conducted a field assessment of several sites in Accra on Friday 10th January 2025.
The inspections is part of an evidence-gathering initiative under President Mahama’s preparatory framework, aim to address claims of state capture and protect public assets.
The field exercise covered multiple locations, including the Dubois Centre, Agric Mechanization lands, Labadi Beach Hotel’s beachfront, La Trade Fair, the demolished Bulgarian Embassy, and the Northern Development Authority (NDA) land in Cantonments.
Key Developments from Inspections
Dubois Centre
Team ORAL observed escalating tensions at the Dubois Centre between Ministry of Tourism staff and representatives of a private company claiming a contract from the previous administration to manage the facility. Reports of locked offices and alleged death threats against ministry staff prompted the team to invite National Security to intervene, restoring peace and securing the premises.
Agric Mechanization Lands
At the Agric Mechanization lands in Cantonments, the team noted with relief the deployment of military personnel to stop the unauthorized appropriation of the property. Politically connected individuals linked to the outgone government had reportedly evicted staff of the Agric Ministry and initiated rezoning activities without parliamentary approval.
Northern Development Authority (NDA) Lands
The team acted on distress calls and visited the NDA property, where they discovered that anonymous individuals had hurriedly constructed walls to seize large portions of the land. National Security has been alerted to safeguard the property.
Bulgarian Embassy Property
During their tour of the demolished Bulgarian Embassy site, Team ORAL assured embassy officials that a comprehensive report would document the current state of affairs. The report will include details of the ongoing suspension of an apartment complex project initiated by Dr. Yaw Adu Ampomah, a former appointee of President Akufo-Addo.
Commitment to Nationwide Investigations
Hon. Ablakwa emphasized that Team ORAL’s field assessments would continue across the country to compile a detailed report for the attention of President Mahama. The report is expected to serve as a foundation for addressing alleged irregularities and safeguarding national assets.
“We are committed to ensuring that this preparatory task is meticulously executed to meet the high expectations of the Ghanaian people,” Hon. Ablakwa stated.
As the team continues its investigations, Hon. Ablakwa reiterated the importance of accountability and transparency in governance. This initiative reflects Team ORAL’s resolve to protect public assets and address concerns about the misuse of state resources.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
