Section 1: Introduction and Background
Lawyer Sulley Sambian, the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Northern Development Authority (NDA), has vehemently denied a series of corruption allegations circulating on social media and online news platforms. These accusations, which he deems baseless and lacking merit, range from the illicit sale of state-owned lands in Accra and Tamale to the disappearance of motorbikes, unethical procurement practices, and irregularities in the auctioning of vehicles. Sambian issued a comprehensive press release on January 11, 2025, to address these claims and provide a detailed account of his actions and the NDA’s operations since his appointment in March 2023. He emphasizes that his response is driven by a commitment to transparency and a desire to address the concerns of stakeholders.
Section 2: Allegations of Land Sales
Central to the allegations is the purported sale of NDA lands in Accra and Tamale. Sambian categorically refutes these claims. Regarding the Accra property, he explains that upon assuming office, he discovered the NDA lacked proper legal title to the land in Cantonments. His administration initiated the process of securing a lease from the Lands Commission to establish legal ownership. He reveals that the construction of a wall, which sparked some of the land sale accusations, was initiated without his knowledge and was subsequently halted pending verification of the NDA’s land boundaries. Concerning the Tamale lands, Sambian unequivocally states that no such sale has occurred.
Section 3: Missing Motorbikes and Vehicles
The allegations also encompass the disappearance of 24 motorbikes and a Toyota Hilux pickup truck. Sambian clarifies that the motorbike issue came to light during a stocktaking exercise conducted after he appointed a new storekeeper. He immediately directed his Deputy CEO to report the matter to the police, leading to arrests. He criticizes those now questioning the NDA’s actions for having previously incited protests against these very arrests. Regarding the Toyota Hilux, Sambian explains it was assigned to the Board Chairman for official use in Accra, given his frequent attendance at meetings on behalf of the NDA. He deems the allegation of its disappearance absurd, given it remained under the authority’s control.
Section 4: Tricycle Procurement and Vehicle Auctions
Further accusations concern the procurement of tricycles and the auctioning of vehicles. Sambian explains that the tricycles were purchased through proper channels as part of a poverty eradication program, with a near-perfect recovery rate on the subsidized sales, unlike past performance. He denies having any personal connection to the tricycle supplier. Concerning vehicle auctions, he asserts that due process was followed, including public advertisement for bids, and all proceeds were deposited into a government account held by the Bank of Ghana.
Section 5: Criticism of Media Coverage
Sambian expresses strong disapproval of the media outlets that initially published the allegations, accusing them of failing to adhere to journalistic ethics by not seeking clarification from him or the Board Chairman before publication. He characterizes the publications as defamatory and detrimental to the NDA’s reputation. He underscores the importance of responsible journalism and due diligence in verifying information before dissemination.
Section 6: Conclusion and Commitment to Transparency
In concluding his statement, Sambian reiterates his commitment to transparency and accountability within the NDA. He frames his detailed response as a testament to his respect for stakeholders and a desire to maintain public trust. He dismisses the allegations as unfounded attempts to undermine the authority’s work and emphasizes his dedication to continuing the NDA’s mission of development in northern Ghana. He urges the public to disregard the baseless accusations and assures them of the NDA’s continued commitment to responsible governance and development. He also implicitly calls for greater responsibility from media outlets in their reporting on sensitive matters involving public institutions.
