Fresh revelations have emerged regarding the controversial acquisition of a prime Cantonments land by former National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) Director Nana Atobrah Quaicoe. The land, valued at over $700,000 (approximately GHS 10.5 million), was reportedly acquired for a mere GHS 160,000.
This disclosure was made by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu and Chairman of the Presiden Mahama’s ORAL Committee, who presented documentary evidence to counter Nana Atobrah’s earlier denials of any wrongdoing.
The controversy first came to light when lawyer Martin Kpebu, a member of ORAL, accused Nana Atobrah of land grabbing. In response, the former NIB boss denied the allegations and threatened legal action against Kpebu. However, Okudzeto Ablakwa’s release of land title certificates and other documents has reignited the debate, painting a different picture.
In a detailed Facebook post, Ablakwa questioned the former NIB boss’s denial, stating:
- Purchase Price: Ablakwa alleged that the land was purchased for GHS 160,157 (less than $11,000), a fraction of its market value.
- Market Value: He emphasized that the land’s conservative market value exceeds $700,000.
- Parliamentary Approval: Ablakwa criticized the government for failing to seek parliamentary approval for rezoning the land, as required by the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, 2016 (Act 925).
- Alleged Intermediary: He claimed that an assign acting on Nana Atobrah’s behalf had approached him regarding the issue.
Ablakwa expressed his determination to push for reforms, stating, “This is why I am even more convinced 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.”
He also highlighted then candidate John Mahama’s assurances of ending state asset captures if given the mandate again.
The lawmaker’s revelations have sparked public outcry, with many calling for transparency and accountability in the management of state assets. The release of supporting documents has added further weight to the allegations, leaving Nana Atobrah with pressing questions to address.
The saga continues to unfold, with stakeholders and the public keenly watching for the next developments.
Below are the details released by Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa
Source: ghananewsonline.com