The return of Gifty Oware-Mensah, former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), to Ghana marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into allegations of massive payroll fraud. Oware-Mensah, who arrived back in the country on March 4, 2025, is prepared to cooperate fully with the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) and address the accusations of approximately 80,000 ghost names on the NSA payroll. This voluntary return signals a willingness to engage with the investigative process and provide her perspective on the matter. Her legal team is already in contact with the NIB, paving the way for a structured and transparent engagement with the authorities. The return also counters earlier speculations regarding her whereabouts and intentions, solidifying the commitment to address the allegations head-on.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin confirmed Oware-Mensah’s return and her readiness to cooperate with the NIB, emphasizing the importance of due process in the investigation. He highlighted the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) stance on accountability, asserting that the party is not opposed to investigations but insists on fairness and adherence to established legal procedures. This underscores a commitment to transparency and a respect for the rule of law, even while advocating for the rights of their former official. Afenyo-Markin’s statement aims to position the NPP as supportive of the government’s efforts to combat corruption while simultaneously ensuring a just and impartial process for those under scrutiny.
The investigation into the NSA’s alleged payroll fraud gained momentum following President John Dramani Mahama’s directive during his State of the Nation Address on February 27, 2025. The President’s address urged security agencies to actively pursue individuals accused of corruption-related offenses, effectively placing them on a wanted list. This directive signaled a renewed focus on tackling corruption within government institutions and holding individuals accountable for financial malfeasance. The subsequent investigation into the NSA and the detention of Kwaku Ohene Gyan, former Deputy Director of Operations, demonstrate the seriousness with which the government is approaching these allegations.
Prior to Oware-Mensah’s return, speculation and rumors surrounding her departure from Ghana fueled concerns that she might be attempting to evade the investigation. These rumors were addressed by NPP Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed, who clarified that Oware-Mensah’s absence was due to official duties abroad, not an attempt to escape scrutiny. This clarification sought to dispel the negative narrative and portray her absence as legitimate and unrelated to the unfolding investigation. Mohammed also emphasized that the allegations of fraud against Oware-Mensah remain unproven, highlighting the importance of presuming innocence until guilt is established through a proper investigation.
The investigation into the NSA’s alleged payroll fraud represents a broader effort by the government to combat corruption and ensure accountability within public institutions. The alleged presence of tens of thousands of ghost names on the payroll indicates a potentially significant loss of public funds, highlighting the need for thorough investigation and appropriate action. The scale of the alleged fraud underscores the vulnerability of public institutions to such schemes and the importance of robust internal controls and oversight mechanisms.
The unfolding investigation into the NSA’s alleged payroll irregularities will undoubtedly continue to draw public attention. The cooperation of key figures like Oware-Mensah is crucial for uncovering the truth and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. The outcome of this investigation holds significant implications for the credibility of public institutions and the government’s commitment to fighting corruption. It will also serve as a test case for the efficacy of the President’s directive and the ability of the security agencies to effectively investigate and prosecute high-profile corruption cases.
