Reports are emerging that Stephen Okoro and Alvin Mensa, closely linked to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s daughters, Gyankroma Akufo-Addo and Edwina Nana Dokua Akufo-Addo, have left Ghana amidst calls for their investigation and possible arrest. Both men are alleged to have deep business ties with the President’s daughters, raising questions about their involvement in controversial government contracts and financial transactions.
Allegations of Preferential Treatment
North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has intensified scrutiny over a $34.9 million contract awarded to Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, a company tied to Stephen Okoro. According to Ablakwa, the preferential treatment given to the company, despite damning audit reports, is rooted in longstanding business relationships between Okoro and the President’s daughters.
In a detailed social media post on July 24, Ablakwa revealed that incorporation documents link Gyankroma Akufo-Addo and Stephen Okoro as directors of SFO Initiatives Limited, a company established in 2013. Furthermore, Goodbox Limited, incorporated on August 12, 2020, lists Gyankroma and Edwina as directors, with Okoro serving as secretary. Another firm, Good Grow Limited, incorporated shortly after, mirrors this structure.
These revelations have led the MP to petition the Office of the Special Prosecutor, urging a criminal investigation into the alleged financial irregularities and nepotism surrounding the contracts.
Rex Omar Demands Accountability
Adding to the calls for transparency, Ghanaian musician and activist Rex Omar has criticized the Akufo-Addo administration for alleged mismanagement of public funds through these deals. Speaking on an Accra-based radio program, Omar highlighted Gyankroma Akufo-Addo’s role in handling funds earmarked for ambulance procurement.
He alleged that Gyankroma, a former Board Member of the Creative Arts Council, oversaw a $58 million contract to purchase 307 ambulances for the country. Subsequently, she was linked to the contentious $34.9 million contract for spare parts, sparking outrage over the potential misuse of funds.
“Such scandals must be thoroughly investigated under the Operation Recover All Loots initiative to restore public confidence in governance,” Omar stated.
Pressure Mounts as Insiders Question Expertise
Critics have also raised concerns about the qualifications of Service Ghana Auto Group Limited to handle such significant contracts. Insiders argue that the firm’s track record does not justify its selection, fueling suspicions of nepotism.
These allegations have put a spotlight on Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who is accused of fast-tracking the controversial deal before leaving office.
Flight from Accountability?
While investigations intensify, reports suggest that Stephen Okoro and Alvin Mensa, both implicated in the scandal, have left Ghana under unclear circumstances. Their departure has been viewed by many as an attempt to evade accountability.
Public Outcry Grows
The unfolding saga has sparked widespread outrage, with calls for President Akufo-Addo to address the allegations involving his family. Civil society organizations and opposition leaders are demanding comprehensive investigations to ensure that public resources are not misused for personal or familial gain.
The controversy adds to the growing list of corruption allegations facing the Akufo-Addo administration, further straining public trust as the country navigates economic challenges.
The Road Ahead
As the Special Prosecutor investigates the matter, Ghanaians await answers regarding the roles of the President’s daughters, their associates, and the companies involved. The scandal serves as a litmus test for the country’s commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.
This story remains under development, with updates expected as investigations progress.
