Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has raised a crucial question about Nana Attobrah Quaicoe, the former Director-General of the National Intelligence Bureau.
He inquired about the specific details of Quaicoe’s denial regarding the alleged purchase of state land in Cantonments.
Ablakwa sought clarity on what exactly the former intelligence chief is disputing, especially in the face of accusations involving questionable transactions related to state-owned property.
The MP underscored the need to be concerned about transparency and accountability in public office and called for further clarification on the issue.
“Is he denying that he bought our prime Cantonments state land from President Akufo-Addo at a terribly insulting GHS160,157.00 — that is for less than US$11,000?
“Is he denying the fact that the real conservative market value for that piece of land is in excess of US$700,000.00 (GHS10.5 million)?”
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Ablakwa further questioned whether the former NIB Boss is denying that his government failed to adhere to the provisions of the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, 2016 (Act 925).
He specifically pointed out the issue of the government not seeking parliamentary approval when they claimed to have conducted rezoning activities.
Accordingly, Ablakwa urged clarification on whether Quaicoe is rejecting the allegation that the proper legal and procedural steps, as required by the Act, were bypassed, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the rezoning process and the lack of transparency in the handling of land matters.
The MP further questioned whether Mr. Quaicoe is denying that he played a role in instructing someone to take action or make inquiries regarding this matter.
He raised concerns about whether the former NIB Director-General was involved in facilitating or orchestrating the outreach, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in the handling of the situation.
This inquiry suggests that there may be more to the issue than previously acknowledged, prompting further scrutiny of the actions taken by those in positions of authority.
Ablakwa Urges Clarity on Quaicoe’s Denials, Advocates for State Asset Bill
Furthermore, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa expressed his confusion, stating that he honestly does not understand the nature of the denials being made by Mr. Quaicoe.
He emphasized that the situation is increasingly unclear, and the inconsistencies in the responses are raising more questions than answers.
Ablakwa added that, given the complexity of the issue, it appears that there are certainly some interesting and potentially revealing days ahead, as more details are likely to emerge in the ongoing inquiry.
“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”.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Meanwhile, the North Tongu Legislator expressed his enthusiasm, stating that he is encouraged by President Mahama’s message, which offers hope that the era of state capture is finally coming to an end.
He highlighted that Mahama’s commitment to transparency and accountability signals a new chapter in Ghana’s political landscape, one in which the influence of powerful elites on state institutions is reduced, ensuring a fairer and more just governance system.
Hon. Ablakwa believes that this shift could pave the way for a more democratic and equitable future for the country.
He remarked that his commitment to ensure that state capture is eradicated is driven by a deep sense of duty to both God and the nation, emphasizing the motto “For God and Country.”
He reiterated his unwavering belief in putting Ghana first, prioritizing the nation’s welfare and progress above all else.
He expressed his dedication to serving the people of Ghana, ensuring that the country’s interests are safeguarded, and its future is built on principles of integrity, unity, and collective prosperity.
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