The former Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi, has told the High Court in Accra that he has been “unjustifiably crucified” in the media with inconsistent facts by state actors, over allegations that he siphoned more than GH¢1.5 billion belonging to the state.
Appearing before Criminal Division Four of the High Court, presided over by Justice Kizita Naa Koowa Quarshie, on Thursday, his lawyer, Osei Owusu, said the former NSS boss had been a victim of prejudicial public commentary, despite the constitutional presumption of innocence.
“He has been crucified in the media unjustifiably,” counsel argued.
“The accused person still remains an innocent Ghanaian citizen… He is in a hurry to prove his innocence and will fully cooperate for an expeditious trial that will lead to his acquittal and discharge.”
Mr Assibey, who has been on police enquiry bail for months, prayed the court to admit him to self-recognisance bail, citing his service to the nation and assurances that he would not abscond.
Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem-Sai did not oppose the bail application but urged the court to consider the magnitude of the allegations.
He told the court that under Mr Assibey’s watch, “GH¢1.5 billion cannot be found,” adding that individuals with substantial means facing serious charges posed higher flight risk.
He further cited concerns about the accused’s conduct when he was expected in court days earlier, insisting the state was justified in seeking strict bail conditions.
Bail terms
Justice Quarshie granted bail in the sum of GH¢800 million with six sureties, who must secure the amount with landed property of equal value. Additional conditions include:
Sureties to deposit copies of their IDs with the court registry; Accused to report to the National Intelligence Bureau on the first and third Wednesday of every month; Placement on the Ghana Immigration Service stop list; Submission of all passports to the court.
The case has been adjourned to December 2, 2025, for Case Management Conference.
Charges
Mr Assibey faces 14 counts, including causing financial loss to the state, stealing, and money laundering. State prosecutors allege that between 2021 and 2025, he approved payments for more than 60,000 ghost national service personnel, resulting in losses exceeding GH¢500 million and diverted more than GH¢100 million meant for the Kumawu Farm Project
He is also accused of personally receiving GH¢8.2 million through an e-zwich account allegedly linked to his biometrics.
The prosecution says investigations began after intelligence reports identified a widespread ghost-names scheme and alleged vendor refund kickbacks returned to him in cash.
Mr Assibey, a former Ashanti Deputy Regional Minister and former Mayor of Kumasi, was appointed Executive Director of the National Service Scheme in 2021 and left office in January 2025.
He has denied any wrongdoing, insisting he looks forward to clearing his name at trial.
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