In a dramatic turn of events, former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSS) of Ghana, Gifty Oware-Mensah, has been released by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) after being questioned in connection with the ongoing probe into the ghost names scandal at the NSS.
Oware-Mensah was taken into custody on Friday, March 7, and detained briefly before being granted release on Saturday, March 8, after cooperating with investigators. Her interrogation is part of broader efforts to unravel alleged irregularities within the National Service Scheme, including a staggering 81,885 ghost names that infiltrated the NSS payroll, draining millions from state coffers.
The ghost names scandal has sent shockwaves across the nation, with many calling for accountability and transparency. The Presidential Office has issued a statement revealing that while the previous government had presented 180,030 names for allowance payments in 2024, only 98,145 were confirmed as legitimate National Service personnel after an exhaustive verification process.
Gifty Oware-Mensah’s release comes as a surprise to many, given the severity of the allegations. However, sources indicate that she will be recalled for further questioning as investigations progress. The full details of her involvement, if any, remain unclear.
As the investigation continues to unfold, many are left wondering about the extent of Oware-Mensah’s involvement in the scandal. Her lawyers have refuted claims that she had absconded from Ghana, stating that she had exercised her constitutional right to travel outside the country for a break after the 2024 general elections.
The National Service Scheme has been at the center of controversy in recent weeks, with many calling for reforms and greater accountability. The ghost names scandal has highlighted the need for greater transparency and oversight within the Scheme.
In a statement, the Ministry of Finance revealed that GHS 226,019,224 had been released for the verified 98,145 personnel, 81,885 fewer names than what the previous NSS management had fraudulently presented. The statement added that the government is committed to ensuring that those responsible for the scandal are brought to justice.
As the investigation continues, Gifty Oware-Mensah’s release has raised more questions than answers. One thing is certain, however: the ghost names scandal will have far-reaching consequences for the National Service Scheme and those involved.
The National Investigations Bureau has confirmed that Oware-Mensah will be recalled for further questioning, and many are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the investigation. As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: the ghost names scandal will not be swept under the rug.
Source: Africa Publicity
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