Home Blog Page 441

2 Nigerian nationals accused of cross-border kidnap granted bail 

By
BERNICE BESSEY
-
0
Bail Granted

Two Nigerian nationals, alleged former members of the Niger-Delta militant group, have been granted bail by the Circuit Court 3 in Accra after being accused of plotting to kidnap individuals in Ghana for ransom.

The accused persons – Joseph Howell, 43, a self-styled private security officer, and Japhet Graham, 53, who claims to be a businessman — were each admitted to bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 with two sureties, all to be justified with landed property.

The original and registered documents covering the property must be submitted to the court’s registry in the names of the sureties.

Presiding Judge Her Honour Susana Eduful also directed that the accused must report to the case investigator on the last Thursday of every month until otherwise stated.

The case has been adjourned to October 27, 2025, when the accused are expected to take their plea. This will mark their third appearance before the court.

Serious Charges of Kidnapping Conspiracy

The accused are facing a charge of Attempt to Commit Crime, namely Kidnapping, contrary to Sections 18(1)(a) and 89 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).According to the prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Jacob Maalo Kuubal Esq, the accused were part of a coordinated cross-border kidnapping syndicate, with alleged roots in the Niger-Delta region of Nigeria.

Brief facts presented in court revealed that on September 5, 2025, Joseph Howell and Japhet Graham allegedly accepted a proposal from one Tari Tiemo, the suspected gang coordinator, to travel to Ghana and kidnap individuals — particularly targeting affluent expatriates, referred to in their coded conversations as “Oborobo” or “big men”.

The plan involved abducting victims and transporting them to Nigeria for ransom negotiations.

Investigations by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) in collaboration with Nigerian Police Intelligence and INTERPOL NCB revealed detailed conversations among group members, including suspects identified as Mathew (Lagos), Smart Christmas Alfred (Ondo State) and Adusa Oyile (Delta River State).

These individuals reportedly contacted Tiemo, seeking funds for transport to Ghana, to execute the kidnapping operation.

The accused were arrested in Aflao, in the Volta Region of Ghana, after mobile phone communications linked them to the plot.

According to investigators, both men entered Ghana illegally and were staying at Prince Hotel in Aflao, allegedly under the coordination of Tiemo.

During interrogation, Howell claimed he came to Ghana to collect ₦1.5 million owed to him by his “uncle,” Tari Tiemo.

Graham also claimed he came to retrieve the same amount from one Jonas, a mutual acquaintance of Tiemo.

Authorities believe these claims were part of a cover story. Howell admitted affiliation with at least three security groups operating along the Delta River, strengthening suspicions of his involvement in organised criminal activity.

Both suspects initially denied knowing each other but later admitted they were received by the same contact in Ghana.

Tiemo, who has already been arrested in Nigeria, is said to be cooperating with investigators and has provided names of other accomplices in both Ghana and Nigeria. Security agencies are currently working to apprehend these individuals.

The accused were represented in court by Marcellus Biah, holding brief for Martin Kpebu.

As the investigation continues, the court awaits the formal plea of the accused on the adjourned date.

Dorcas Affo-Toffey lauds GPHA’s 24hr operations

By
admin
-
0
Dorcas Toffey being welcomed by DG of GPHA

The Deputy Minister of Transport, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, has commended Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority (GPHA) for successfully rolling out the 24-hour port operations in line with Government’s 24-Hour Economy Policy.

She described the roll out as a significant step towards enhancing service delivery and boosting efficiency at the ports.

The Deputy Minister stated this on Tuesday, 22nd September 2025, when she paid a working visit to the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) as part of her engagement with agencies under the Ministry of Transport.

She was warmly received by the Director General of GPHA, Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, on behalf of the Authority’s Management and Staff.

The purpose of the visit was to afford the Deputy Minister first-hand insight into the operations of the Port Authority and to interact directly with Management on issues affecting the efficiency and competitiveness of Ghana’s ports.

The Deputy Minister stressed the need for collaborative efforts among GPHA and other key stakeholders in the maritime value chain to ensure smooth port operations.

On his part, the Director General of GPHA, Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono commended the Ministry of Transport for the support the Port Authority continues to get under the able leadership of Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the sector Minister.

He gave the assurance that the goal is to streamline processes, reduce turnaround times and minimize double-handling.

Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono said by optimising operations, GPHA aims to make Ghana’s ports more competitive. He said the Authority was also engaging with stakeholders, including journalists, to improve understanding and transparency.

On digitalization, he stated that efforts were underway to make Ghana’s ports to become a preferred hub for Sahelian counterparts and the oil and gas industry.

Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono revealed that dredging activities will soon commence at the Port of Tema to accommodate larger vessels at Berth 15 to Berth 17.

The General Manager for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Dr. Kingsley Antwi-Boasiako, made a presentation highlighting developments that have been undertaken at both the Tema and Takoradi Ports.

The Director of Port of Tema, Mr. Tebon Zumah, joined the Deputy Minister and her entourage on a tour of the Port of Tema, including Terminal 3, to witness first hand operations.

GIS Opens 3-Day Legal Workshop to Strengthen Contract Management

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
-
0
The Comptroller General of the Ghana Immigration Service, Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has opened a three-day legal workshop aimed at enhancing the expertise of its legal officers in public contract management on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

The training, organised by the Service’s Legal, Research and Monitoring Directorate, brings together legal officers from across the country and features facilitators from the Office of the Attorney General, Ministry of Finance, procurement experts and seasoned practitioners from both the public and private sectors.

The workshop, themed: “Enhancing Expertise in Public Contract Management” is designed to equip participants with practical skills in contract drafting, public procurement law, risk assessment, confidentiality and compliance, while deepening their appreciation of ethical governance and prudent resource management.

In his remarks, the Director of Legal, Research and Monitoring, Mr. Philip Takyi, said the initiative was a deliberate investment in strengthening one of the Service’s most critical pillars, contract governance.

“Our Service is on a steady path towards entrenching a culture of ethical governance, prudent resource management and strict adherence to standards.

This workshop, therefore, represents a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening institutional decision-making and contract governance,” he noted.

He expressed gratitude to the facilitators and senior colleagues who volunteered to share their experiences, describing their participation as a testament to their commitment to the growth of GIS.

Mr. Philip Takyi particularly thanked the Solicitor-General and senior officials of the Attorney General’s Department for their consistent guidance. He also commended the Ministry of the Interior for its continuous support to the Service.

“The Legal Directorate remains fully committed to supporting prudent corporate practices within GIS and enhancing institutional integrity,” he assured.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister for the Interior, the Acting Chief Director of the Ministry, Mrs Doreen P. Annan, commended the GIS leadership for the forward-looking initiative.

She underscored the importance of legal capacity in public institutions, especially in an era where government contracts are increasingly complex and high-value.

“To sustain its mandates, the legal officers of GIS must be fully equipped to manage the complex and evolving demands of public sector contracts. Well-structured contracts protect the interests of the state, promote institutional credibility and ensure value for money, while poorly managed agreements risk financial loss, inefficiencies and reputational damage,” she stated.

Mrs. Annan urged participants to take full advantage of the program. “This seminar is both timely and strategic.

“I encourage you to ask questions, challenge assumptions and leave with renewed confidence to provide sound legal support for the service and the nation at large,” she said.

The Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, Mr Samuel Basintale Amadu, noted that the Service had already begun implementing reforms in its operational and administrative areas, with more training programs lined up for the year.

He emphasised that strengthening the legal wing of the Service was critical to reducing litigation costs and ensuring efficiency.

“With this facility now in place, we will not have to rely on hotels and external venues, saving costs while maintaining high standards. This is part of prudent management of our resources,” he explained.

The workshop is expected to foster knowledge sharing, build stronger networks, and equip participants with practical skills to enhance the Service’s operations nationwide. It is also intended to serve as a model for similar training programs across other agencies under the Ministry of the Interior.

‘Strong partnerships needed to unlock opportunities for youth in Agriculture’

By
admin
-
0
Agrinvest

Reverend Kofi Nyanteng, Project Coordinator of Agrinvest, has stressed the need to build stronger partnerships to unlock opportunities for the youth in agriculture.

He pointed out that by working with and emphasising mechanisation, agriculture would serve as a game changer for young agricultural entrepreneurs (Agripreneurs).

Rev Nyanteng said: “Mechanisation is a game-changer for young Agripreneurs.”

He added: “By working with service providers, technology companies and institutions, we are creating an ecosystem where youth can access affordable services, improve productivity and build sustainable agribusinesses.

“This is not just about machine, it is about creating jobs, opportunities and a brighter future for our young people.”

Rev. Nyanteng made the statement at a forum on agricultural mechanisation for the youth at Abankro in the Ejisu Municipality of the Ashanti Region.

The forum was organised by the Agrinvest, in collaboration with the Kumasi Institute for Tropical Agriculture (KITA), under the Strengthened Access to Mechanisation for Agribusinesses for Youth Employment Opportunities (SAMA), which is being funded by Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and the Master Foundation.

The initiative is part of the broader Youth Entrepreneurship for the Future of Food and Agriculture (YEFFA) programme.

The aim is to expand mechanisation services for young Agripreneurs in Ghana.

The forum was attended by participants from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), Crop Doctor, mechanisation service providers, such as tractor owners and operators, rice, cassava and vegetable processors, as well as grain drying service providers.

The event served as a platform to build strategic partnerships and introduce service providers to innovative tools and technologies that can improve efficiency and service delivery to young farmers and Agripreneurs.

About 15 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with the service providers.

Through these agreements, mechanisation services will be extended to about 5,679 young agripreneurs across the first seven districts benefiting from the initiative in the Ashanti region.

The Agrinvest also entered into two strategic partnerships to broaden the impact of the initiative.

A MoU signed with Crop Doctor will make tools and equipment available to service providers and youth groups at discounted prices under the SAMA project.

Additionally, an agreement with Franco Processing and Farms Limited, will open internship opportunities for 100 young women in rice processing and grain handling, strengthening the participation of women in the agricultural value chain.

Mr. Gregory Osei Bonsu, Ashanti Regional Extension Officer of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, expressed happiness about the opportunities being created for young people in the agricultural value chain.

He said: “One of the biggest challenges for farmers, aggregators and processors has been access to mechanisation,” Mr. Bonsu stated, adding that “with improved access mechanisation services under this SAMA project, the region will increase the production and productivity of farmers, reduce post-harvest losses and create employment opportunities through value addition for our youth, especially young women.”

By expanding access to mechanisation, Agrinvest and KITA are breaking down one of the greatest barriers to agricultural growth for young people.

This initiative is not only expected to increase productivity, but also create decent and fulfilling jobs for the youth, especially young women.

GNA

Kente Weavers Union advocates end to galamsey menace 

By
admin
-
0
Kwame Nyame - President, Royal Kente weavers and Sellers Association

The leadership of the Royal Kente Weavers and Sellers Association (ROKWESA), under the leadership of its President, Kwame Nyame, has added its voice to the growing national call to end the devastating practice of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

The Union noted that galamsey has become Ghana’s greatest environmental and moral crisis, noting that once-pure rivers such as Pra, Offin and Ankobra are now poisoned with mercury and choked with sludge.

It noted that forests and cocoa farms are being destroyed and fertile lands rendered useless at a rate that future generations may inherit a barren nation.

In a statement signed by the President of the Association, Mr. Kwame Nyame, the Association indicated that despite successive governments’ efforts through task forces, operations and committees, the menace persists, highlighting corruption, political compromise and lack of consistent enforcement as some of the reasons for the persistence of the practice.

“This is no longer just a policy failure – it is a moral question” because we value quick wealth above life and land.

The association suggested that the fight against the menace requires decisive leadership that prioritises the survival of Ghana over partisan interests, collaboration between government, traditional authorities, civil society, faith communities and the youth, as well as uncompromising enforcement of laws, without fear or favor, to dismantle the networks that shield illegal miners.

Mr. Nyame stated that as head  of ROKWESA, he echoes the voice of His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, whose moral authority and commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s heritage remind us that this fight must transcend politics and stressed that the “time to act is now, not tomorrow, not after another committee report, nor after another failed operation”.

The rivers will not wait. The forests will not wait. The children who will inherit this land cannot wait” for a pragmatic resolution.

From Oswald P. Freiku, Kumasi

Mahama Assigns new role to MiDA

By
admin
-
0
President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has formally designated the Millennium Development Authority (MiDA) as the government’s primary focal institution for coordinating philanthropic and grant-based partnerships.

In a letter dated September 19, 2025 addressed to the Chairperson of MiDA and copied to the Ministers of Finance and Foreign Affairs, President Mahama cited MiDA’s track record of technical excellence, fiduciary discipline and effective delivery as the basis for the new designation.

The move is intended to streamline and enhance the country’s engagement with major international philanthropic entities.

“This designation affirms Government’s confidence in MiDA’s institutional strength,” the letter stated, emphasising MiDA’s historical success in implementing large-scale development projects such as the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compacts.

The new role empowers MiDA to serve as the central coordinating body for all government engagements with philanthropic partners.

This includes strategic alignment with national priorities like the Feed Ghana Programme and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As part of its expanded mandate, MiDA will now be responsible for acting as the lead institution for aligning philanthropic efforts with national development goals, managing secured funds grants, and implementing robust procurement systems.

MiDA’s designation specifically includes, but is not limited to, collaboration with global philanthropic giants such as the Open Society Foundation (OSF), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Mastercard Foundation, and other similar entities.

President Mahama has instructed MiDA to work proactively with the Ministry of Finance, relevant sector ministries, and designated organizations to unlock impactful development financing opportunities for Ghana.

“We are confident that under your leadership, MiDA will excel in this strategic role,” the President’s letter concluded, expressing optimism about Ghana’s potential to become a trusted global partner in international philanthropy.

This strategic shift is expected to bolster Ghana’s capacity to attract and manage international grants effectively, ensuring that partnerships deliver measurable, lasting benefits to the Ghanaian people.

Four granted GH¢60,000 bail for rioting in school 

By
admin
-
0
Osei Tutu Senior High School

Four persons arrested by the police for their involvement in the disturbances at the Osei Tutu Senior High School at Akropong, in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality, have been granted a GH¢60,000.00 bail by the Abuawka Circuit Court.

The four, who pleaded not guilty to two charges of conspiracy to commit crime and riot, were each granted a GH¢15,000.00 bail with one surety by the court, presided by Mr. Jephthah Appau.

They are; Samuel Aloo, 21 Mechanic, Abukari Sadik 24, Butcher, Andrews Boateng, 27, dealer in second hand goods and Emmanuel Gariba 20, a tricycle rider.

They will reappear before the court on October 17, this year.

Police Detective Inspector Alexander Agbekpornu, prosecuting, told the court that the complainant in the case was a Police Officer, stationed at Abuakwa, while the suspects resided at Atwima-Manhyia and Esaase.

He said about a week before the incident, there was a clash between the Esaase youth and the students of Osei Tutu Senior High School at Akropong over a mobile phone theft, which threatened the peace of people in the area.

Prosecution said on August 27, this year, at about 19:00 hours, some youth of Esaase, including the suspects, who had threatened to burn a Hostel of the school, organised themselves and went to the school.

He explained that, the students also made a road block on the Akropong-Esaase road in front of the school’s main gate, threw stones at them in order not to allow them to enter the school premises.

The police, who had information about the incident, rushed to the school and managed to arrest the four, but the rest managed to flee upon the arrival of the police.

After further investigations they were charged and brought before the court.

GNA

Internal NDC contest should be decent, not destructive –Ex DCE

By
ISAAC AKWETEY-OKUNOR
-
0
The flag of the NDC

Abass Fuseini Sbaabe, former District Chief Executive (DCE) for Fanteakwa North in the Eastern Region, has urged all aspiring presidential candidates of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) to conduct their campaigns with decorum and respect for party unity.

He reminded aspirants that internal contests are not new. “If you think the battle to succeed John Dramani Mahama will start only when nominations officially open, think again,” he noted.

According to him, “the struggle began the moment defeat was conceded, and ambitions have quietly been repositioning ever since.”

The former District Chief Executive (DCE) of Fanteakwa continued that, “succession contests are not for the politically naïve. They will test judgment, discipline and loyalty to the party – values that must come before personal ambition”.

Speaking with The Chronicle, Mr. Sbaabe recalled how the endorsement of Professor John Evans Atta Mills by the late Flt.-Lt. Jerry John Rawlings provided direction for the NDC, shaping its future for over a decade.

He indicated that similarly, when the late John Evan Atta Mills chose John Mahama as his running mate, it set the stage for the latter’s eventual rise to the presidency after Mills’ sudden passing in 2012.

“These episodes remind us,” he said, “that internal choices carry consequences far beyond the conventions where they are made.”

The Road to 2028

Looking ahead, he emphasised that no heir-apparent is emerging this time, making the process both promising and perilous.

Senior party members, including Dr. Tony Aidoo, have already warned of the potential fallout if the contest turns divisive.

“This is not about instilling fear,” Sbaabe stressed. “It is a call for readiness. Those of us who have seen bitter internal battles know the damage they can cause not just to careers, but to friendships, relationships and party unity.”

He cautioned against the rise of toxic rhetoric, social media insults and personal grudges, which he said only weaken the NDC and strengthen opponents.

A Call to Action

“Before we speak, post or share, we must ask ourselves: Will this help the NDC win in 2028? Is it true? Is it fair? If not, let’s remain silent,” he advised.

Making a personal pledge, he said: “I will campaign for my preferred candidate, but I will not destroy another comrade to do so. We can argue passionately, but never maliciously.”

He concluded with a rallying call, “We can contest fiercely and still remain one family. We can disagree yet remain united.

“That is the maturity Ghanaians expect from us in 2028. Let us keep this contest decent for victory, for comradeship, and for the greater good of the NDC.”

Muzzled Creatures: Cadman Mills Hits NDC’s Council of Elders

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
-
0
Dr Cadman Mills

Dr. Cadman Atta Mills, former Senior Presidential Advisor and brother of the late President John Evans Atta Mills, has launched fresh criticism at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Jubilee House, over the government’s handling of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account, Dr. Cadman Mills expressed strong disapproval over what he described as the government’s ineffective approach to tackling the galamsey menace, which he says is steadily poisoning Ghana’s arable lands and water bodies.
In what can be interpreted as a direct challenge to attempts to silence dissent within the ruling party, Dr. Cadman Mills maintained that speaking against his party’s policy failures does not amount to disloyalty.

Drawing from his experience as a Development Economist and former World Bank official, he emphasised that constructive criticism is vital to shaping better policies.
“You are not ‘disloyal’ because you criticize your political party’s policies even passionately. A political party is not (and should not be) a monolith.

“In speaking against your party’s policies, you encourage debate and increase the chances of better policies being adopted.”
Dr. Cadman Mills reiterated his unwavering commitment to speaking out against galamsey, despite what he described as efforts to muzzle voices like his under the guise of party loyalty or age.

“I refuse to be silenced on galamsey (or other policies) because of;
(1) the patently false claim that I was silent on the misdeeds of the previous government in mining (I wrote volumes), or
(2) that as a ‘party elder’ I should not publicly express my disagreements with my party’s policies.”

Dr. Cadman Mills clarified his role within the NDC, stressing that he may be elderly, but he is not part of the party’s Council of Elders, whom he suggested are often gagged or politically restrained.

“I am a party member and elderly (very elderly), but I am not a ‘party elder’. Those (muzzled) creatures belong to the party’s Council of Elders.”
His remarks come at a time when environmental degradation linked to illegal mining has become one of Ghana’s most pressing national issues.

Successive governments, including both NPP and NDC administrations, have been criticized for either failing to enforce mining regulations or allegedly benefiting from galamsey-related corruption.

Dr. Cadman Mills’ public stance adds to a growing list of influential voices calling for non-partisan, decisive action on the galamsey crisis, a threat that experts warn could cripple Ghana’s agricultural productivity, biodiversity and public health.

As the galamsey menace spirals out of control, the question remains whether either of Ghana’s two major political parties is prepared to move beyond rhetoric and take the tough decisions required to curb it, even if that means stepping on politically connected toes.

Nana Afia Sika Warns Social Media Critics Against Insulting Her & Her Gods

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0
Nana Afia Sika (R)

Nana Afia Sika, the 23-year-old fetish priestess who has since become an internet sensation after the final funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, has issued a stern warning to people who insult her and her gods on social media.

The young priestess shot to national prominence after her striking appearance at the Dote Yie ceremony for the late Asantehemaa, which drew thousands of mourners and global attention to Ashanti tradition.

In an exclusive interview with GhPage, Nana Afia Sika cautioned critics that she would not tolerate disrespect toward her or her deities.

Drawing a comparison to the infamous incident in which Mustapah was mercilessly beaten for insulting the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, she warned that similar consequences could befall those who attack her or her gods online.

She further explained that the gods she serves belong to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and are deeply revered within the Ashanti Kingdom.

“Insulting me is just like insulting Otumfuo and my deity,” she stressed and urged Ghanaians to show restraint and respect toward traditional leaders and their spiritual custodians.

Credit: ghpage.com

1...440441442...2,950Page 441 of 2,950

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©
The Ghanaian Chronicle