He expressed concern that despite daily monitoring and enforcement efforts by municipal authorities, people continue to erect structures on water channels.

“Every day, new structures are being built, and it is very worrying,” he said on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

Mr. Martey questioned the effectiveness of local authority taskforces responsible for preventing such developments.

“The Municipal Assembly has a taskforce that patrols the communities daily. Don’t they see people building on waterways? Later, they come and blame us,” he asked.

He insisted that although warning notices are often issued to developers, enforcement measures are rarely followed through.

“They go and write ‘Stop Work’ on these buildings, but they don’t follow up. Then later, they blame us,” he stated.

Mr. Martey called for stronger enforcement measures, including the demolition of illegal structures obstructing waterways.

“All structures impeding the flow of water must be pulled down,” he stressed.

Mr. Martey said he was encouraged by comments from the Regional Minister authorising Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to demolish such buildings.

“I am happy the Regional Minister has given MMDCEs the authority to pull down those buildings,” he said.

He added that he has documented evidence of ongoing encroachment and warned that the issue would be revisited if it continues.

“I have copies of newspapers reporting these issues. If this happens again next year, I will bring them out and we will review whether we have all been responsible,” he cautioned.

Mr. Martey explained that Ghana Water Limited has been managing the Weija Dam carefully, noting that controlled spillage has been ongoing since last year.

“We started spilling the dam since last year April and we have not closed it,” he said.

He added that the dam has a maximum safe operating level of about 45 feet, which must not be exceeded.

“The maximum operating level is around 45 feet. We always try to keep it there. We cannot allow it to go beyond that, otherwise it becomes dangerous,” he explained.

He said the dam is monitored hourly to ensure safety.

“We monitor the dam on an hourly basis,” he noted.

Meanwhile, hundreds of homes in parts of Weija in Accra have been submerged following the controlled spillage of the Weija Dam, leaving many residents stranded and forcing evacuations.

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He expressed frustration over what he described as repeated human disregard for warnings not to build on buffer zones and waterways.

“The amount of money we spend on announcements and sensitisation forums every year can even build six classroom blocks or a CHPS compound,” he said on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

“We spend that amount every year on sensitisation, announcements and refreshments after community engagements. For how long are we going to continue like this?” he asked.

Mr. Martey stressed that Ghana Water Limited consistently engages communities, stakeholders and local authorities before and during dam operations.

“Every stakeholder in the community is involved. We hold community forums and sensitisation exercises. People have been educated,” he stated.

He said despite these efforts, some residents still go ahead to build on protected areas.

“After educating you not to build on river buffers, you still go ahead. Why should we do that?” he asked.

According to him, the affected areas are naturally swampy and unsuitable for construction.

“Those areas are mushy areas. Nobody should be building there,” he warned.

Mr. Martey added that GWL should not be blamed for the flooding caused by the controlled spillage of the dam.

“We should not be blamed for doing our job. We are simply ensuring safety,” he said.

He explained that the company continuously monitors water levels at the dam.

“We monitor the dam on an hourly basis and take readings every minute. Whenever we see the level rising above safe limits, we have to open the spill gates,” he noted.

He urged the public to support efforts to prevent flooding by respecting planning regulations and avoiding construction on waterways.

“If we do the right things, we will all be safe,” he said.

Meanwhile, hundreds of homes in parts of Weija in Accra have been submerged following a controlled spillage of the Weija Dam, leaving many residents stranded and forcing evacuations.

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He explained that many residents have built structures on buffer zones and directly within river pathways, blocking the natural flow of water.

“People keep putting up structures that impede the flow of the river, and that is what is happening in the area,” he said on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

He stressed that when rivers are blocked, water will inevitably find alternative paths, often leading to flooding in surrounding communities.

“If you block a river, it will find a place to pass,” he stated.

Mr. Martey noted that there are clear policies prohibiting construction along riverbanks, but these rules have been ignored in several communities.

“On every side of the river, people are not supposed to build, but they have built to the extent that structures are now in the river itself and even filling it up,” he said.

He explained that when heavy rains occur, the blocked waterways cause water to overflow into residential areas.

“When the rains come and the river cannot flow freely, it diverts and floods safer places,” he added.

Mr. Martey therefore rejected claims that Ghana Water Limited is responsible for the flooding due to the spillage.

“So we cannot be blamed for opening the dam,” he stressed.

He further warned that failure to release excess water from the dam could lead to a far worse disaster.

“If we do not open the dam and the excess water has nowhere to go, the dam could break—and that would be more disastrous than what we are seeing now,” he explained.

He cautioned that a collapse of the dam would cut off water supply to large parts of Accra.

“If the dam breaks, we will not be able to abstract water for treatment. It would take three to four years to reconstruct it, meaning about 60 percent of people in Accra could go without water for years,” he warned.

The controlled spillage has contributed to rising floodwaters in downstream communities, submerging homes and shops and forcing residents to move belongings to safer locations.

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The flooding comes after Ghana Water Limited (GWL) confirmed it had begun releasing excess water from the dam due to rising water levels that exceeded safe operating limits, raising concerns of a possible overflow.

However, the Director of Communications at Ghana Water Limited, Stanley Martey, has clarified that the spillage is not the main cause of the flooding in affected communities.

According to him, the situation has been worsened by heavy rainfall and human activities along waterways.

“The dam spillage has not caused the flooding. What we are seeing is the result of the heavy rains we’ve had. Even we are surprised at how some of these places have been flooded,” he said on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem.

Mr. Martey explained that many residents have encroached on buffer zones and waterways, which has worsened the impact of the rains.

“Some people have built in buffer zones where they are not supposed to put up structures. Others are even filling up river bodies and building on them,” he stated.

He stressed that Ghana Water Limited has been managing the dam carefully and has been carrying out controlled spillage since last year.

“We have been spilling the dam since last year. The dam has been opened throughout. So what we are seeing this year is not because of the spillage, but the heavy rains,” he explained.

Mr. Martey cautioned the public not to ignore the situation, stressing the need for proper environmental practices.

“We need not joke with this issue,” he warned.

He added that the spillage is a controlled safety measure to prevent the dam from overflowing, not an emergency release causing flooding downstream.

“It is not about the dam. The dam has already been opened in a controlled manner,” he said.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as displaced residents call for urgent relief and long-term solutions to recurring flooding in the area.

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Recounting the mother’s words in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, the Public Relations Officer of the Atwima Mponua District Education Directorate, Eric Aboagye, said the woman had travelled from another town to Nyinahin to engage authorities over the matter.

He said the woman was deeply distressed after seeing the widely circulated video.

“The mother was crying and said that is not how she raised her daughter. She was very surprised to see the video of her daughter fighting with a teacher,” Mr Aboagye stated.

According to him, the mother expressed shock and disappointment over how the incident had escalated.

Mr Aboagye also provided updates on the legal process, explaining that police were preparing to arraign the teacher in court, but the suspect’s lawyers arrived after court sitting hours on Tuesday.

“On Tuesday, the police were processing the teacher for court. His lawyers arrived later, but by then the court had closed,” he explained.

He added that efforts were underway on Wednesday morning to ensure the suspect is brought before the court.

“This morning, they went to the police commander to see how he can be taken to court,” he said.

The footage, which has sparked widespread public outrage, appears to show the teacher physically confronting the student while other students are heard pleading for him to stop. In the video, he is seen repeatedly striking the student and at one point lifting and throwing her to the ground.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr Aboagye said the teacher has managed the private hostel for about seven years without any recorded disciplinary incident.

“One thing about the teacher is that he has taken care of the hostel for the past seven years, and there has never been any incident of this sort,” he said.

He added that the teacher is generally regarded as a disciplinarian who strictly enforces hostel rules.

“From what we know, he is a disciplinarian, and he is supposed to maintain order. If there had been patience, we might not be where we are today,” he stated.

According to him, the hostel is privately owned, and the teacher was appointed by the owner due to his strict approach to discipline and ability to manage students effectively.

He explained that the teacher was initially reluctant to take up the role because of concerns about managing students who may not fully comply with rules.

“The owner of the hostel built it and asked the school authorities to recommend someone disciplined to manage it, and he was chosen for that role,” Mr Aboagye said.

He further noted that the hostel operates under strict regulations, which some students sometimes struggle to follow, especially as they become more independent.

“When students get to that stage, they want to do things their own way, and I believe that contributed to the misunderstanding,” he explained.

Mr Aboagye added that while the teacher’s actions cannot be excused, he may have reacted under provocation.

“He is a human being like all of us. If he had exercised a little more patience in the face of provocation, this would not have happened,” he said.

Meanwhile, the teacher has been arrested after a viral video showed him allegedly assaulting a female student on campus.

The footage, which has sparked widespread public outrage, appears to show the teacher physically confronting the student while other students are heard pleading for him to stop. He is seen repeatedly striking the student and at one point lifting and throwing her to the ground.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr Aboagye said the incident occurred on Monday evening at a private hostel housing students of the school.

He explained that three male students had reportedly left the hostel after gate closing hours and returned around 10:00pm, despite the gate being scheduled to close at 9:00pm.

“When they came back late, the teacher in charge told them to go back because the gate was already closed and he could not open it at that time,” he said.

According to him, the students reacted by pelting stones at the hostel, prompting the caretaker to report the matter to the hostel owner, who subsequently lodged a complaint with the police over alleged threats against the teacher.

He further alleged that tensions escalated after the male students were asked to vacate the hostel.

“The teacher later reported that the boys had threatened to attack him after their WASSCE examinations,” Mr Aboagye stated.

He said the removal of the students from the hostel triggered a confrontation involving a female student, who allegedly made offensive remarks directed at the teacher.

“The female student, out of anger, made some comments which the teacher responded to. Unfortunately, the exchange escalated,” he explained.

Mr Aboagye added that during the exchange, the student reportedly mentioned that her father was deceased, which further intensified the confrontation.

He said the matter was later escalated to school authorities, who involved the police. The teacher was subsequently taken into custody to assist with investigations, while the student was issued a medical form for examination.

“The assistant headmistress in charge of domestic affairs contacted the police commander, and both parties were attended to. The student has since been treated and discharged,” he said.

He noted that the female student is a final-year WASSCE candidate offering Home Economics and had completed her Biology examination, with only one paper left before finishing school.

Mr Aboagye added that the student is currently in stable condition following medical attention, while investigations into the incident are ongoing.

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According to him, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, delegated officials to conduct community engagement and registration for the programme and expected the DCE to ensure that information reached all stakeholders.

Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr Owusu Amoah alleged that the DCE failed to adequately communicate details of the registration exercise to party members and residents.

“The Minister delegated people to undertake community engagement and registration and expected the DCE to ensure the information reached everyone. Unfortunately, that did not happen,” he claimed.

Mr Owusu Amoah further alleged that tensions between the DCE and some party members date back to his appointment.

“Ever since he was nominated as DCE, some party members were not happy with the decision. However, once government approved him, we all accepted and supported him,” he said.

He claimed that despite this support, the DCE has consistently failed to involve party executives in key activities within the district.

“We believe the DCE thinks he owes nothing to the party. He has consistently sidelined party executives and failed to involve us in important decisions. We have complained about this on several occasions,” he alleged.

According to him, constituency executives had planned to meet the DCE to discuss their concerns and find a way forward but have been unable to do so.

“The constituency executives wanted to meet the DCE to resolve these issues, but the constituency chairman has not supported that move because he is perceived to be aligned with the DCE’s camp,” he claimed.

His comments follow Monday’s disruption of the launch of the Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme in the Birim North District.

Some aggrieved youth, believed to be supporters of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), attempted to block Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah and his entourage from launching the initiative.

The protesters, dressed in black with red armbands, accused party leaders and local stakeholders of excluding them from the planning and implementation process.

The situation was later brought under control following the intervention of police personnel and senior party officials.

The Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme is being implemented by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources as part of efforts to formalise small-scale mining, promote responsible mining practices and create sustainable employment opportunities in mining communities.

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According to him, many people have misinterpreted videos of the incident that have been circulating on social media.

Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr Owusu Amoah said neither the youth nor party supporters opposed the government’s mining initiative.

“I have seen the video, but a lot of people are misinterpreting what happened. We support what President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, are doing. The youth are in support of the programme because it is intended to help us,” he said.

He explained that the government’s goal is not to stop mining activities but to ensure they are carried out responsibly.

“When President Mahama came into office and saw the challenges in the mining sector, he did not seek to stop mining. Rather, he wants us to mine responsibly without destroying the environment,” he stated.

Mr Owusu Amoah said this informed the introduction of the Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme, which seeks to support unemployed youth interested in mining while promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

“Government wants to take interested youth through the necessary processes and training so they can mine responsibly, protect water bodies and reclaim degraded lands,” he explained.

According to him, the confusion arose during the registration and community engagement phase of the programme.

He alleged that officials delegated to conduct community sensitisation and registration failed to adequately involve all stakeholders.

“The problem started when people were sent to conduct community engagement and register interested participants. They were expected to work through the District Chief Executive, Hon. Hakeem Antwi Abdul, to ensure proper announcements were made,” he said.

Mr Owusu Amoah claimed that information about the registration exercise did not reach many party members and community residents.

“Our concern was that many people, including party supporters, were not informed about the registration. Some people who were close to local authorities were registered while others were left out,” he alleged.

He further claimed that a similar situation occurred when participants were selected for training under the programme.

“When the trainers arrived, the training was held at the District Assembly Hall. The organisers from Accra assumed everyone who needed to participate had been invited, but many people who were interested were unaware of it,” he said.

According to him, the aggrieved youth decided to raise their concerns directly with the Minister before the official launch.

“We informed the Minister that many people had been excluded from the process. When we stopped his convoy, he got down from his vehicle and listened to our concerns,” he recounted.

Mr Owusu Amoah commended the Minister for engaging with the protesters and assuring them that the concerns would be addressed.

“The Minister listened to us and admitted that if people had genuinely been excluded, then that was not fair. He assured us that nobody would be left out and that those who missed the earlier stages would be given the opportunity to participate,” he said.

He added that the Minister promised that additional registration would be conducted to ensure broader participation.

“He assured us that the townspeople and party members who were excluded would be registered so that everyone could benefit from the programme,” he stated.

Mr Owusu Amoah said the youth eventually commended the Minister for his response and willingness to engage them.

“We even applauded him because he showed that he is a grassroots person who has the interest of the party and the people at heart,” he added.

His comments follow an incident on Monday, June 8, when some angry youth, believed to be NDC supporters in the Birim North District, attempted to block Mr Armah-Kofi Buah and his entourage from launching the Cooperative Mining Scheme.

The protesters, dressed in black attire with red armbands, accused local party leaders and stakeholders of sidelining them in the planning and implementation of the initiative.

The situation was eventually brought under control through the intervention of police officers and senior party officials.

The Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme is being implemented by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources as part of efforts to formalise small-scale mining, promote responsible mining practices and create sustainable employment opportunities in mining communities.

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She described the situation as traumatic, saying many families were overwhelmed by the destruction of their homes.

“When this demolition happened, we are asking ourselves if we indeed have leaders in this country,” she said.

She added that some victims could not cope with the emotional and physical impact of the incident.

“If you are in a country and you don’t have anybody to speak for you, they will just trample on you. Some of the victims have collapsed and are in hospital because they cannot handle the pain and damage that has been done,” she told Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

Her comments come after residents of Community 25 were evicted following the enforcement of a court ruling by a developer claiming ownership of the disputed land.

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She said the operation, which took place at dawn, was the first time residents were informed of any eviction order.

“We had no prior notice. Nobody told us anything. That morning, when they came, was the first time we were hearing about it,” she told Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

According to her, security personnel claimed they had been called in early in the morning to enforce a court decision.

“They said the police were called at dawn to come and carry out the exercise,” she added.

Janet Baidoo expressed frustration over what she described as a lack of transparency from the authorities involved.

“Come to the ground and ask people yourself if they were given any notice. They just came to take people’s things out,” she said.

She also said residents were not provided with any official documentation at the time of the demolition.

“When we asked them to show us the court order, they refused. They didn’t give us any reason why our houses had to be demolished,” she stated.

Describing the scene, she said many of the affected houses were fully completed and occupied.

“Come and see people’s houses that have been demolished. These are not structures on waterways or in bad condition. These are proper houses built with people’s hard-earned money,” she said.

Janet further claimed that residents were unsure who was behind the enforcement exercise.

“They say the person who won the court case is out of the country, and we don’t even know who is behind all this,” she added.

She questioned the fairness of the process and the human impact of the demolition.

“If you have won a court case, do you not see that people used their hard-earned money to build these houses? Just look at what has been done. How do we even recover from this damage?” she lamented.

Her comments follow the demolition of several structures at Savannah Junction, where residents say they were caught up in a long-standing land dispute involving multiple claimants and repeated sales of the same plots.

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One of the affected residents, Janet Baidoo, recounted the distressing experience, saying she and her family had legally acquired their property about 11 years ago and had no prior notice that the land was under litigation.

“We acquired the house and land with my mum and siblings about 11 years ago. It was a fully completed building, and we never heard anything about any dispute,” she told Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

She explained that the eviction began unexpectedly when security personnel arrived at the area.

“On Wednesday morning, I was called that police and soldiers had surrounded the area, asking everyone to evacuate because there was a court case they had won,” she said.

According to her, the situation was confusing as residents were unaware of the final legal outcome and had previously seen different parties lay claim to the land.

“Another party had also claimed to have won a case before, so we were confused about what was happening,” she added.

Janet said the operation involved police officers, military personnel and bailiffs who entered homes and began removing residents’ belongings.

“They entered every room and started packing our things outside. We didn’t know what to do, so we started calling the people who sold the land to us, but they were not responding,” she recounted.

She further noted that residents attempted to seek intervention from local authorities.

“We went to meet the MCE at Prampram, and we were told to remain calm because discussions were ongoing,” she said.

However, she said the demolition resumed days later despite ongoing efforts to resolve the matter.

“Last Saturday, during heavy rain, they stormed the place again. My brother rushed there and saw that the area had been cordoned off with bulldozers, and our house—built with our hard-earned money—was being pulled down,” she said emotionally.

“My elderly mother, who is over 70 years old, has been crying since,” she added.

Meanwhile, other affected residents say they are devastated, alleging they were caught between multiple competing land claims and repeated payments to different individuals who presented themselves as owners.

The demolition has reignited concerns over persistent land litigation and multiple sales of the same property within parts of the Tema enclave, leaving many families displaced and uncertain about their future.

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She said the child’s welfare, education, and wellbeing must be prioritised.

“We need to relocate the girl to the safest place. The interest of the child, her welfare and education are important,” she said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem.

She noted that the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) should be fully involved in the matter, given that the victim is a minor.

“DOVVSU is under the police and the Ministry of Gender, and I believe once she is a minor, they will know what is going on,” she added.

Mrs Morrison further called for counselling support for both the child and her mother as part of efforts to help them recover from the trauma.

“The woman also needs counselling, just as the girl,” she said.

The comments follow allegations made by the child’s mother during an interview on the same show.

According to her, the abuse allegedly began when the girl went to stay with her father in Garu after years of not knowing him.

She claimed the father allegedly forced himself on the girl during her first visit.

The mother further stated that the child later underwent a medical examination at an undisclosed hospital, where she was diagnosed with HIV.

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She expressed concern that the matter has not received the attention it deserves, especially given that the suspect is a member of the police service.

“I don’t know if the IGP has heard it, but I don’t know why they will sit aloof and not say anything, especially when the man is a police officer,” she said.

Mrs Morrison added that she intends to personally follow up with the relevant authorities.

“As a woman, I will try and contact them and see the way forward,” she said.

She stressed the need for immediate relocation and protection of the victim.

“We need to relocate the girl to the safest place. The interest of the child, her welfare and education are important,” she stated.

She also noted that the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) should be fully involved in the case.

“DOVVSU is under the police and the Ministry of Gender, and I believe once she is a minor, they will know what is going on,” she added.

Mrs Morrison further emphasized that both the child and the mother may need psychological support.

“The woman also needs counselling, just as the girl,” she said.

The comments follow allegations made by the child’s mother during an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem programme.

According to the mother, the abuse allegedly began when the girl went to stay with her father in Garu after years of not knowing him.

She claimed that the father allegedly forced himself on the girl during her first visit.

The mother further stated that the child later underwent a medical examination at an undisclosed hospital, where she was diagnosed with HIV.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, the former Member of Parliament for Agona West said she was shocked by the incident and could not comprehend how such an act could happen within a family.

“I can’t even understand why a man, with his own child, will go ahead and sleep with her. If this is not spiritual, I don’t see why a man would have the sense to do that,” she said.

She further noted that even among extended family members, such behaviour would be unthinkable.

“Even cousins won’t go to that extent, even if they are not aware of their siblings, let alone a father doing that,” she added.

Mrs Morrison stressed that while the incident is deeply disturbing, attention must now focus on the welfare and protection of the child.

“Now there is sickness in it, and what has happened has already happened. So what can we do to help the child, as the crime has already taken place? We have to think about the safety of the child,” she said.

The comments follow allegations made by the child’s mother during the same programme. According to her, the abuse allegedly began when the girl went to stay with her father in Garu after years of not knowing him.

She said the father allegedly forced himself on the girl during her first visit.

The mother further claimed that the child later underwent a medical examination at an undisclosed hospital, where she was diagnosed with HIV.

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Margaret, a mother of three children, two boys aged 13 and 8, and a four-year-old girl, was among victims trapped when a three-storey building collapsed at Adenta New Site in the Greater Accra Region following heavy rainfall.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Georgina said she rushed to the scene after calls to her sister went unanswered.

“When we heard about the incident, I called her line but she was not picking. I rushed to the place, and when I got there, the building had collapsed and they had already rescued the children,” she said.

She explained that Margaret was still trapped under the rubble while efforts were ongoing to rescue her.

“They had rescued two of the children and left one and my sister trapped. Later, they rescued the last child and rushed them to the hospital, but my sister was still under the debris,” she recounted.

Georgina added that her sister died while trying to save her children.

“According to the eldest child, they were eating when the building collapsed. My sister lay on them to protect them, and she was injured by iron rods. She tried to save them, and that is why she lost her life,” she said.

She further revealed that the family had only recently moved into the building.

“They started building it about three years ago and moved in just last year,” she noted.

Georgina also said the family is yet to be informed about where her sister’s body has been taken.

“As of now, we don’t know where her body has been sent. We are going to check the hospital. But the children are doing well,” she added.

The incident occurred after a storey building collapsed at Adenta New Site, leaving several people injured and others trapped under debris.

Emergency response teams, including personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service, the Ghana Police Service, and other agencies, are continuing rescue and recovery operations at the scene.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he said many people knowingly purchase and build on lands within flood-prone and waterlogged areas, contributing to the recurring disaster.

“When people are buying land, they should know that these are waterlogged areas, yet they still go ahead to build there. The dam was created so that water can pass through,” he said.

He added that those involved in selling such lands should be ashamed of their actions.

“Those who sold those lands should bow their heads in shame for selling to people,” he stated.

Mr Lamptey called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, including traditional authorities, to prevent future occurrences.

“I am calling on all stakeholders to be part of this and not allow this to happen again, just as the Ga Mantse has said,” he noted.

He also warned residents not to assume safety once water levels begin to drop.

“Even if the water goes down, those staying around those areas should not think they are safe,” he cautioned.

The MCE stressed that any decisions taken to address the situation must be accepted in good faith, adding that authorities were prepared to take tougher measures going forward.

“We are going to be radical about it so this will not happen again,” he said. “It’s not about demolition for demolition’s sake, but we all have a role in what is happening.”

He further urged against politicising the issue, saying many homes had already been affected.

“I don’t want to see this again in my constituency where people suffer whenever it rains heavily. This is not the time for sensationalism,” he added.

Mr Lamptey noted that he had been in office for about a year and believed human behaviour and poor land-use practices were partly to blame for the situation.

His comments come after the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, called for tough action against chiefs accused of selling lands on waterways and flood-prone areas, warning that the practice is worsening flooding in parts of Accra.

During a visit to affected communities on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Ga Mantse said traditional leaders found culpable should face arrest and prosecution.

The flooding, triggered by the Weija Dam spillage, has displaced several residents, submerged homes and shops, and forced many families to evacuate their belongings.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he said the disaster has displaced many residents and left others stranded in dangerous conditions.

“More than a thousand homes have been submerged,” he said, describing the situation as “like you are driving in the sea.”

He explained that in several areas, floodwaters have risen beyond six feet, making movement extremely risky for residents.

“In some places the water level is beyond six feet, so if you can’t swim, don’t even dare,” he warned, adding that some people have even been forced to climb trees to escape rising waters.

Mr. Ahmed said residents were caught off guard and had no prior warning before the spillage began.

“My people had no notice,” he said, stressing that the lack of communication worsened the emergency.

He also accused the Ghana Water Company Limited of failing to properly engage local authorities ahead of the spillage, unlike in previous years.

“What I have known for the past four years is that they try and engage us, but this time they didn’t,” he said.

According to him, the absence of coordination meant communities were not prepared for the sudden rise in water levels.

“They were supposed to engage us and not wait for the water to come just like that,” he added.

Mr. Ahmed further disclosed that he has personally rented Kia trucks to support evacuation efforts, while some displaced residents have been moved into guest houses for temporary shelter.

He also said he had engaged the Municipal Chief Executive to consider dredging works using DIP machines to improve water flow and reduce future flooding risks.

Describing the situation as a crisis, the MP called for urgent intervention from security agencies.

“This is a national security threat,” he said, urging collaboration between the military, police, and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to support evacuation efforts.

He further warned that only two spillways had been opened so far, cautioning that the situation could worsen if more are released.

Meanwhile, hundreds of homes in Weija in the Greater Accra Region remain submerged after the dam spillage, with residents continuing to be evacuated as emergency teams work to manage the disaster.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he explained that the lack of early communication from the Ghana Water Company Limited meant the Assembly could not properly prepare or alert residents in advance.

“We were not given any prior notice, so we could not prepare adequately as a municipal assembly,” he said, adding that in previous years there had been better collaboration and early warning systems in place.

Mr. Lamptey noted that the spillage was opened on Wednesday evening, but the volume of water entering communities was more than expected.

“They opened the spillway and suddenly saw water entering houses. It was not expected to rise to that level so quickly,” he said.

He further explained that when the situation worsened, he personally went to engage officials of Ghana Water but did not meet the manager in charge at the time, and was told the responsible officer was unavailable.

The MCE said emergency response measures have since been activated to support affected residents.

According to him, small boats have been deployed to evacuate people, especially those unable to swim, while vehicles are also being used to move residents and their belongings to safer locations, including nearby churches.

He added that Assembly Members have been tasked to assist in evacuation efforts and coordinate support for displaced families.

Meanwhile, hundreds of homes in parts of Weija in the Greater Accra Region have been submerged following the dam spillage, leaving many residents displaced.

Floodwaters have rapidly spread through low-lying communities, forcing families to abandon their homes and belongings as authorities continue evacuation and relief efforts.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he said residents are not interested in ongoing disagreements between government, the World Bank, and the contractor over the facility.

“All we need is for government to open the hospital for us,” he said.

He stressed that once the facility is opened and operational, any disputes could be resolved later.

“Government and the World Bank can have their back and forth, but that is not our concern. They should come and open the hospital for us first, and continue their discussions afterwards,” he added.

Mr. Haruna expressed concern that the facility, despite being completed, is not in use, describing it as a waste of public investment.

“There are lights in the hospital since it was constructed, but it is still not in use. That is a waste of money,” he said.

He argued that opening the facility would help generate revenue for government while improving healthcare delivery.

“If it is opened and operational, at least it will generate revenue for the government,” he noted.

He further urged authorities to treat the situation as an emergency.

“We need the hospital as an emergency case. It should be treated as such,” he said.

Mr. Haruna insisted that residents want immediate action rather than continued discussions.

“All we know is that the hospital should be opened. The World Bank and contractor issues are not needed now. They should open it for us,” he stressed.

The Weija-Gbawe Children’s Hospital project has been the subject of public concern in recent weeks due to delays in its commissioning despite the completion of major construction works.

Meanwhile, the World Bank has reportedly urged government to expedite the operationalisation of the facility, noting that the multi-million-dollar project was intended to strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly for children.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he said residents have received no clear updates on the status of the facility.

“We have not received any update on the issue,” he said.

He added that although there was initial attention from government following media reports, no further action has been taken on the ground.

“Since the issue came up and the media picked it up, it looked like government was going to act, but even after about three weeks, nobody has come here. No one has visited the hospital to check whether it is ready for use,” he stated.

According to him, residents are now preparing to take further action if the situation is not addressed.

“So now we are preparing ourselves to embark on a massive demonstration,” he warned.

The Weija-Gbawe Children’s Hospital project has been at the centre of public discussion in recent weeks amid concerns over delays in opening the facility despite the completion of major construction works.

Meanwhile, the World Bank has urged government to expedite the operationalisation and opening of the facility, stressing that the multi-million-dollar project was intended to strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly for children.

Awerco Construction threatens legal action against Ministry of Health over Weija Specialist Children’s hospital

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Haruna urged government to engage the contractor and resolve any outstanding issues preventing the facility from opening.

“They should open the hospital and sit down with the contractor to discuss whatever issues remain,” he said.

According to him, delays in payments to contractors are not uncommon in government projects and should not prevent a critical health facility from serving the public.

“There are many projects contractors have worked on where government has not paid immediately, but they know eventually government will pay,” he stated.

He stressed the importance of opening the specialist hospital, describing it as a crucial healthcare facility for residents in the area.

“This is a special hospital, so they should open it for us. Whatever issues there are can be resolved along the way,” he appealed.

Mr. Haruna further called directly on President Mahama to personally assess the situation if he has not been adequately briefed.

“We are pleading with President Mahama to intervene. If they are not telling him the truth, he should come to the hospital and see things for himself. Maybe they are deceiving Ghanaians, so he needs to come and see the situation firsthand,” he said.

He noted that residents have not submitted a formal petition because they feel their concerns may not receive a response.

“We have not written any petition because they may not even reply us. All we want is for the government to open the hospital for us. That is all we are asking for,” he added.

His comments come amid growing concern over the continued closure of the fully completed Children’s Specialist Hospital in Weija, with residents calling for its immediate commissioning and operationalisation.

Residents say opening the facility would help reduce pressure on existing health centres and improve access to specialised healthcare services for children in the area.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he expressed frustration over what he described as inconsistent communication from the ministry regarding the operationalisation of the specialist hospital.

According to him, the project had reached a stage where children should already have been benefiting from the facility by the end of the month.

“By the end of this month, by now children should be using the hospital if we had gone according to plan,” he stated.

Mr Acquah explained that financial arrangements between contractors and government are common and should not prevent the hospital from beginning operations.

“In Ghana, we have a lot of arrangements about contracting with the government because it is not always the government can pay upfront when it comes to certain arrangements with payment,” he said.

He stressed that the urgent need now is to operationalise the facility to prevent expensive medical equipment from deteriorating and to begin training staff for the specialist services the hospital is expected to provide.

“It is important we open the hospital immediately because there are machines there which are going to waste. You need training for staff for the facility because it is a specialist hospital and not just a general hospital,” he explained.

“So money for our clients should not be the biggest obstacle now.”

The lawyer further accused the Ministry of Health of backtracking after initially indicating that the hospital would soon be operational.

“The biggest obstacle was that the Health Minister said he was going to operationalise the hospital but in a few days’ time, he changed his mind, and there was a different communication,” he alleged.

“It has made the whole waters muddy.”

Mr Acquah also urged authorities to remain consistent in their engagements with the contractor and its representatives in order to avoid further delays.

“When they come up with a plan, when they ask to meet us, when they ask to meet our representatives, they stick to the plan,” he said.

The Weija-Gbawe Children’s Hospital project has been at the centre of public discussion in recent weeks amid concerns over delays in opening the facility despite the completion of major construction works.

Meanwhile, the World Bank has urged the government to expedite the operationalisation and opening of the facility, stressing that the multi-million-dollar project was constructed to strengthen healthcare delivery system, particularly for children.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he argued that employment processes should include proof of a certified drug test conducted through NACOC or recognised institutions before recruitment.

According to him, the measure would serve as a strong deterrent against drug use, especially among young people preparing to enter the job market.

“We must start testing people on drugs when looking for jobs,” he said.

He explained that the policy should not be limited to specific sectors but applied broadly across all workplaces.

“We must ensure that in all jobs and companies, private, public, you must present evidence of a drug test with NACOC as the recognised institution to do it,” he stated.

Mr. Twum Barimah stressed that such a policy, if adopted nationally, could significantly reduce substance abuse, particularly among students and young job seekers.

“So when people know this, it will be one stroke point to help us curb the abuse of drugs among the youth, because if not, a time will come and it will be difficult for us to get young people as successors,” he warned.

He further noted that early enforcement could influence behaviour long before individuals enter the workforce.

“When we accept this as a national policy, people will be careful not to abuse drugs while in school,” he said.

He believes the move could drastically reduce drug abuse levels in the country, if not eliminate it entirely.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he explained that the nationwide exercise formed part of the recruitment process for the security services and was carried out across all 16 regions.

“When we started the recent security service recruitment, as part of the process, NACOC conducted drug tests on all the applicants,” he said. “So the drug test was done in all the 16 regions nationwide.”

His comments come in the wake of revelations by the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, that more than 6,000 applicants were disqualified from the ongoing security services recruitment process due to drug use and mental health-related issues.

The Minister explained that more than 4,000 applicants failed the drug tests, while about 2,000 others were disqualified on mental health grounds.

Giving further details, Twum Barimah said that the testing was not limited to drugs taken on the day of screening but could identify substances used within a longer period.

“The test was not for drugs taken in a day, but as long as within the last month, it will be detected,” he explained.

He further noted that a wide range of substances were detected among applicants, with opioids being the most common.

“We tested them on all drugs, but the most common component was the opioids, Red, tramadol, cocaine, heroin, cannabis, among others,” he said.

Mr. Twum Barimah added that a significant number of applicants across the country tested positive for various substances during the exercise.

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He said he is unaware of any situation where “okada” riders are refused treatment or subjected to unfair care, stressing that nurses are trained to save lives regardless of a patient’s background.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he explained that emergency care is based on the severity of a patient’s condition, not on their occupation or identity.

“Our job is to save lives, so we cannot say that okada riders will come to the hospital and we will refuse to take care of them or amputate them. That is not what we do,” he said.

He noted that hospitals operate a triage system (emergency sorting process), which determines which patients require urgent attention.

“We have something called triage. When there is an accident or emergency, some cases are more serious than others, so we prioritise based on severity. I don’t know whether they arrive during that sorting process, and that may be why they feel ignored,” he explained.

According to him, patients may sometimes misunderstand the process and assume they are being neglected when medical staff are actually attending to more critical cases.

“Because they may not understand what we do, they think we are ignoring them, but that is not the case. We don’t stop everything to attend to one person unless it is life-threatening,” he said.

He further dismissed claims that nurses carry out amputations.

“We don’t amputate like that. Nurses don’t amputate. Doctors are the ones who perform surgeries. We work within clear guidelines and medical protocols,” he stated.

Mr Krampah added that healthcare delivery is guided by professional standards and laws, with regular training and supervision from district health management teams.

“We are trained professionals. There are systems in place, and we follow protocols. Cases are reviewed regularly to ensure proper care,” he said.

His comments come after concerns raised by motor riders that they are sometimes denied proper care when they are involved in accidents at health facilities.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he alleged that when riders are involved in accidents and are taken to hospital, nurses often do not attend to them promptly.

According to him, in some cases where riders suffer broken legs that could be treated, medical staff instead suggests amputation.

“When riders get injured and go to the hospital, nurses in some facilities do not take good care of them. Sometimes when a leg is broken and can be treated, they will rather suggest amputation,” he said.

He further claimed that injured riders are sometimes left unattended for long periods while hospital staff attend to other patients.

“When you are admitted, you will not be attended to for a long time until they are done with what they are doing before they start attending to motor riders,” he added.

Mr. Ampambila expressed concern that such treatment, if not addressed by leadership, could worsen relations between riders and health workers.

“We are all human beings, and every job we do is given by God. So if we get injured and are refused proper care while others are attended to, it is not fair,” he said.

He also alleged that nurses sometimes describe motor riders as “troublesome,” a characterisation he disagrees with.

“They always say we are troublesome, but I don’t understand why. We are only doing our job,” he noted.

He insisted that most riders are not reckless, adding that they have trained members to follow safety rules and ride responsibly.

“We are not reckless. We train our riders to be responsible, so most of these accidents are unfortunate incidents,” he explained.

The PRO also revealed that the association is engaging leadership of health professionals in an effort to resolve the concerns.

“We are trying to engage their leaders so we can resolve the issue together,” he said.

He further noted that most riders have valid licences and therefore are less likely to flee hospitals after accidents, contrary to public perception.

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His comments follow tensions over the demolition of structures linked to a land dispute involving “Peaceful Settlers” and a private developer, an issue he says had already been taken to court.

According to him, he first engaged both parties after being briefed on the long-standing disagreement over ownership and development of the land.

“When this matter broke up, I did not know anything about Peaceful Settlers. I invited them and their leadership to my house,” he explained.

He said both sides later met him at his office, where it emerged that the case was already before the courts, limiting his ability to intervene directly.

“As a lawmaker, I can never interfere in a matter that is pending before a court. Not even the President of the Republic can interfere. That is the fundamental principle,” he stated.

Mr. Norgbey added that discussions at the meeting revealed the possibility of a negotiated settlement between the parties, but disagreements over proposed terms stalled progress.

He further disclosed that he instructed the private developer to suspend work temporarily while efforts were made to resolve the matter amicably.

However, he said he was later alerted that the Municipal Assembly had begun demolishing structures on the site, prompting him to rush to the scene.

“When I arrived there, I had to stop the assembly from the demolition,” he noted.

The MP insisted that his actions were not an interference in official duties but a response driven by concern for peace and his engagement with affected parties.

“I have not seen any judgment. I acted based on the relationship and information brought to me by the people who came to my house,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly is yet to respond publicly to comment on the exercise, which reportedly destroyed about 50 shops.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr. Eli described the situation as unfortunate, accusing the MCE, Freeman Tsekpo, of attempting to evict traders from what he described as lawfully acquired land.

“It is quite unfortunate. We have an MCE who wants to sack us from our lands. He wants to move us from our lawful acquired lands and give them to a private developer while the matter is still in court,” he alleged.

According to him, the traders have operated on the land for more than 60 years and are surprised by what they describe as renewed attempts to remove them.

“We have been here for over 60 years. So anytime there is demolition in Ashaiman, we are not surprised because it always comes back to us,” he added.

Mr. Eli further accused the MCE of targeting their association whenever he visits the area.

“The moment he comes to our site, he tells us to leave. It looks like he has an agenda against us. Sometimes we feel we are being treated like squatters on our own legally acquired land,” he said.

He also claimed that although the Member of Parliament intervened in the matter, the MCE reportedly insisted on proceeding with his position.

“Even when the MP tried to intervene, the MCE said he would not listen to anyone. It looks like he is determined to erase us from the map,” he stated.

The spokesperson appealed directly to the President to intervene, saying the situation could affect many other residents if not addressed.

“We are appealing to the President to intervene because this is not just about us. Today it is us; tomorrow it could be someone’s home, business or school,” he warned.

He maintained that the traders possess valid documentation for the land, including allocation papers and building permits allegedly issued by the Tema Development Corporation (TDC) and the Assembly.

“We have documents, building plans and permits. The Assembly itself has given us approval. The only reason we have not fully developed the land is because the matter is in court,” he explained.

The comments follow renewed tension between the Peaceful Settlers Traders Association and the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly after reports that about 100 shops have been earmarked for demolition.

While the traders insist they have legal documentation, the MP has reportedly stated that he cannot determine ownership of the land, stressing that the matter lies within the jurisdiction of the Municipal Assembly and the courts.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Kissi said the family has already outlined its own plans regarding the burial arrangements and stressed that customary procedures must be respected.

“Our father was very instrumental in our lives. God willing, on June 25, we will perform his doteyie, which means the day he will be buried, after which the family will later come out to announce to the public when the final funeral rites will be held,” he said.

Dr. Kissi questioned whether it was appropriate for a child to independently announce funeral arrangements without the family’s approval.

“Is it even right for a child to announce the death of his father or announce funeral arrangements? What I know is that the family has the right to make such announcements,” he stated.

“If your child comes out to make such an announcement, then it cannot be right.”

According to him, traditional customs give authority over funeral arrangements to the extended family and not directly to children of the deceased.

“Apostle Kwadwo Safo comes from a family and, as a family, it is rather our right to come out and announce the funeral rites to the public,” he said.

“He belonged to a family before he had children, so how can a child announce that? It is the family’s right to set the date and conduct funeral rites when someone dies in the family.”

Dr. Kissi further explained that this custom is reflected even in funeral notices and obituary posters.

“That is why when you look at obituary posters, you usually see the family first before the children. A child cannot be an Abusuapanyin,” he said.

He also indicated that the family had exercised restraint to avoid creating unnecessary public controversy.

“There is a lot to say, but because of the love we have for the man, we as a family are trying hard not to tarnish our image in public,” he added.

Explaining customary procedures, he said families are traditionally informed officially through designated representatives.

“In our customs, when someone dies in a family, even if the person is your father, some family members are delegated to announce the death. And truly, they sent some people to inform us as a family, so why then go ahead and have a child take matters into his or her own hands?” he questioned.

His comments come after funeral arrangements were announced by Sarah Adwoa Safo together with the Kristo Asafo Mission and the Funeral Planning Committee, indicating that Apostle Kwadwo Safo would be buried on July 30, 2026, at Gomoa Mpota.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Secretary to the family, Dr. Philip Siaw Kissi, said even the deceased’s children are largely unaware of where their father’s remains have been kept.

“As I am speaking to you now, the family doesn’t even know where the body is,” he stated.

According to him, only one of the children, Adwoa Safo, appears to have knowledge of the location. He added that when the family pressed for clarity, they were told the body had been kept in a restricted place.

“It is only Adwoa Safo who knows, and when we asked, she told us the body is in a special place and that she even requires presidential permission to go there,” Dr. Kissi said.

Dr. Siaw, who doubles as a Co-Chairman of the funeral planning committee noted that while the explanation did not make sense to the wider family, they chose restraint to avoid escalating tensions.

Apostle Safo passed away on September 11, 2025.

His pioneering inventions, including the Kantanka Omama SUV and Onantefo pickup truck, remain enduring symbols of African ingenuity and resilience.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he said the institution is no longer passive but taking proactive steps to regulate rent-related practices, especially in the student accommodation sector.

According to him, recent developments show that some hostel operators are already planning or implementing fee increments without proper justification, a situation he described as unacceptable.

“There are institutions that are clothed with the authority to ensure that the right things are done. Today we are telling them that Rent Control is not in slumber. Rent Control is active. Rent Control is proactive,” he said.

He stressed that the law provides clear procedures that must be followed before any rent adjustments can be made, warning that enforcement will be strict.

“The law has been clearly laid out. Let us engage before anyone goes ahead,” he noted.

Mr. Opoku revealed that intelligence available to the Rent Control office indicates that some hostels had already begun increasing fees even before official engagement processes were completed.

He announced plans to roll out a nationwide student reporting platform on Monday to track and document unfair rent practices, in collaboration with student leadership and stakeholders across the country.

“On Monday, we are going to launch a platform for students across the country to report,” he said. “We will work with SRC presidents, tenant associations and all stakeholders. We will give them backing.”

He warned that any landlord or hostel operator who defies regulatory directives will face firm action.

“If anyone defies this, trust me, they will face two things: either they will be closed down or they will not be allowed to operate,” he stated.

According to him, enforcement will not be limited to warnings but will include legal action where necessary.

“We have to go to court and the court will do what it must do. They are working under the law,” he explained.

Mr. Opoku dismissed claims from some property owners that regulatory enforcement is unfair, describing such arguments as unconvincing.

“I’m not here to even respond to what they say. For me, it is laughable,” he said. “The regulator has spoken.”

He further emphasized that rent increases must be backed by proper assessment and certification, adding that landlords are required to justify any adjustments.

“They must act within the confines of the law, they must be issued with a certificate of assessment, and without that, they cannot increase rent,” he added.

Mr. Opoku reiterated that Rent Control is committed to ensuring fairness in the housing and hostel sector, stressing that the era of arbitrary rent increases must end.

“The law must work. Simpliciter,” he concluded.

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He explained that the task forces will monitor rent-related issues across the country, including compliance with rules on rent advance payments and tenant documentation.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Opoku said the Rent Control Department is also working toward digitising its operations to improve efficiency.

“There are task forces to look into rent issues. We are talking about the fact that landlords should not issue rent cards within the first one week after giving out a property,” he said.

He added that all landlords will be required to register themselves and their properties as part of efforts to modernise the system.

“We want to digitise our system. We want to go soft instead of hard — we want to be paperless and cashless,” he stated.

According to him, internal reforms are underway to ensure stricter enforcement of rent laws.

“I am doing internal controls in Rent Control to ensure that the laws are enforced,” he said.

Mr. Opoku stressed that the task forces will remain focused on core rent issues and will not engage in unrelated debates such as currency matters.

“These task forces will go out and ask for compliance. They are not going to talk about dollarisation anywhere,” he said.

He further warned landlords against exceeding the legal rent advance limit, stating that offenders must be ready to justify their actions.

“If you have taken more than six months’ rent advance and there is proof, then you have to explain why you cannot be prosecuted,” he said.

Mr. Opoku said the task force will strictly focus on ensuring compliance with rent laws and not introduce unrelated issues.

He also reiterated his commitment to an educational and engagement-driven approach rather than aggressive enforcement.

“Since I took office, I said I will continue to educate, sensitise and engage to create awareness. That is responsive leadership,” he noted.

He added that ignorance of the law is not an excuse, but stressed the importance of public education.

“I will not use ‘Rambo style’ or forceful methods. We are all citizens, and if people understand the law, it will help more than using force,” he said.

Mr. Opoku said the goal is to ensure compliance through awareness, dialogue, and consistent enforcement of rent regulations.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Opoku said the Rent Control Department has clearly outlined its mandate and will not hesitate to act against operators who violate regulations.

“I don’t really want to respond to them because it is of no use to respond to them. As a regulator, I have drawn the line clearly for them to see, and I have stated my mandate and the powers on which I stand,” he said.

He stressed that all housing operators must comply with the laws of the country, warning that enforcement measures could include sanctions and possible closure of facilities found to be in breach.

“If they know that we have laws in the country, or they think that because they have built houses they can make their own laws, that’s fine. The law will now be tested, and they can be closed down if they go ahead to do what they are doing,” he stated.

Mr. Opoku added that no operator is above the law and insisted that rent regulations come with consequences for non-compliance.

“There are laws, and those laws come with punishment. If the laws cannot be applied, then we better not apply them at all,” he said.

He further noted that housing providers are expected to operate within established regulatory frameworks and cannot act independently of the Rent Control Department.

“You cannot operate in a vacuum and say the Rent Control Department has invoked Section 10,” he explained.

According to him, many operators have failed to comply with assessment procedures required by the department.

“We are aware that none of these operators have come for assessment. They have acted illegally and unlawfully,” he said.

Mr. Opoku said the department’s intervention was not aimed at shutting down facilities but to ensure compliance and fairness in the housing sector.

“I didn’t go there to close buildings. I only went there to interact with them after receiving a petition from NUGS, and I wanted to understand how they arrive at those huge charges,” he explained.

He added that enforcement of rent laws is necessary to prevent exploitation.

“Are we asking too much? If you want us to throw the laws away, then we are building a lawless country,” he said.

“Ghana is defined by laws, and your investments cannot be above the law.”

His comments follow a reaction from Ghana Hostels Limited, which demanded an immediate and unqualified apology over remarks he made concerning accommodation charges at the Pentagon Hostel at the University of Ghana.

In a statement dated May 13, 2026, the company said Mr. Opoku’s comments on Hitz FM were not based on adequate due diligence and had created a misleading impression about the operations of the hostel facility.

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He said the Rent Control Department has begun a nationwide compliance exercise targeting hostel operators across Ghana’s tertiary institutions following growing complaints about exploitative pricing, excessive rent advances, and arbitrary fee increases.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Opoku said inspections revealed worrying living conditions in some hostels.

“In some of the hostels in Ghana’s tertiary institutions, the rooms the students are sleeping in are very sad,” he said.

He explained that some rooms measuring about 14 by 6 feet accommodate as many as four students, with fees ranging between GH¢3,000 and GH¢8,000 per semester.

“Four students in a room paying GH¢6,000, GH¢3,000, and even GH¢8,000 per semester — that is outrageous. We are also concerned about ventilation and health issues,” he stated.

Mr. Opoku questioned whether such facilities meet basic standards, adding that regulatory oversight is necessary.

“At times we even have to ask the Ghana Tourism Authority whether they are aware that such rooms are being used. But we are not regulators in terms of registration,” he noted.

He stressed that the core mandate of the Rent Control Department is to address what he described as excessive hostel charges.

“Our issue is the exorbitant rent in hostels, and that is what we need to talk about,” he said.

According to him, many hostel operators failed to respond when asked about assessment and evaluation of their facilities.

“When we went round, we asked hostel managers if they had been evaluated and assessed, and they didn’t even respond,” he said.

Mr. Opoku clarified that no sanctions have yet been applied, but discussions are ongoing with operators.

“I have not applied any consequences of the law. I only told them to meet so we can talk and get more information on how they charge. I told them to hold on,” he explained.

“Is it too much to ask you to hold on?” he added.

He further stated that the exercise is not aimed at forcing immediate price reductions or increases but ensuring proper regulation.

“I did not say you should reduce or increase your price. The bottom line is that we want to assess every hostel in this country according to the law,” he said.

Mr. Opoku warned that unregulated hostel operations would not be tolerated, adding that enforcement action could follow in collaboration with other state agencies.

“Woe betides any hostel that is operating illegally. We are coming with the Ghana Tourism Authority to close down those that are not regulated,” he warned.

He described unregistered operators as fraudsters operating outside the law.

The move follows a petition from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) dated April 23, 2026, calling on authorities to enforce the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), amid rising complaints over hostel costs in university communities.

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The closure forms part of an ongoing nationwide enforcement exercise by the Authority, aimed at removing inferior goods from the Ghanaian market and ensuring compliance with approved production standards.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem after the operation on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the Greater Accra Regional Manager of the GSA, Clement Kubati, said the exercise is part of a sustained effort to protect consumers and clean up the market.

He explained that intelligence-led surveillance is guiding the Authority’s operations and more factories are expected to be targeted.

“That’s why I’m saying we’re going to make sure that we will continue with our surveillance. The information that we picked before we came here, we’re going to continue,” he said.

Mr. Kubati revealed that the operation on May 18 also led to further enforcement action in other areas, stressing that the Authority will continue to intensify its monitoring.

“We are going to make sure to reinforce it with our power locks and seal. Simple as that,” he added.

He noted that investigations show some of the products were recently manufactured but with substandard materials, which pose risks to consumers.

“These are mattresses that have been manufactured… This is just recent manufacturing. These are substandard mattresses that are being manufactured with low-standard material,” he said.

According to him, the Authority will extend its checks beyond production sites into retail outlets, as some of the items have already entered the market.

“We’ll try to see what we can do in the market at the retail site. But some of them have found their way into a retail market,” he explained.

The operation also led to the arrest of two Chinese managers of 5A Homes for allegedly violating regulatory standards and engaging in unfair trade practices.

Mr. Kubati disclosed that the company had previously been shut down in October last year but allegedly resumed operations despite ongoing regulatory concerns.

“They are going ahead to manufacture, which is against the law… And this time around, we are picking them up for prosecution,” he said.

He warned that breaking GSA seals and defying closure orders will attract legal consequences.

“You can’t break our seal and our locks and expect us to leave it to go free,” he stated.

Describing the situation as part of a wider challenge, he said the Authority’s operations are ongoing and not limited to mattresses alone.

“It’s a work in progress. It’s not an event, we are moving to other areas,” he said.

Mr. Kubati further appealed to the public to support enforcement efforts by sharing information on suspected substandard products, adding that more actions will follow in the coming weeks as part of a broader crackdown.

“We are working within the confines of the law. The law is giving us the full backing to do what we are doing,” he emphasized.

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According to him, the chief of Sefwi Asawinso “A”, Nana Kwasi Ayim II, together with some residents, went to the site not to fight but to caution illegal miners believed to be operating in a forest reserve.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Acquah said the intervention followed reports that miners were operating in the forest under the guise of working on cocoa farms.

“When you ask them, they say they are working on a cocoa farm, but information suggests they normally go into the forest to mine,” he explained.

He stressed that the chief’s intention was peaceful.

“When the chief went there, he did not go to fight. He went there to bring peace and tell them to stop the illegal mining,” he said.

However, the situation escalated when the group attempted to leave the site.

“On our way back, some macho men guarding the site started firing and attacking us. About seven people, including the chief, were injured, and one person was shot,” he narrated.

The Assemblymember alleged that the attackers were linked to individuals operating at the site, one of whom has been identified as Obidi.

He further indicated that while one suspect has been arrested, others are currently on the run.

“We called the police and national security immediately after the incident. The suspect we know as Obidi has been arrested, but others are still at large,” he said.

Mr. Acquah added that security agencies, along with the MP and Municipal Chief Executive, are expected to visit the area to assess the situation and help restore calm.

The incident has heightened concerns over illegal mining activities in forest reserves and the rising tensions between communities and suspected galamsey operators.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, she thanked Ghanaians for their patience during the difficult period under the programme.

“We thank Ghanaians for their patience in these difficult times. We have been resilient and have gone through it,” she said.

She also commended President John Dramani Mahama and his economic team for adhering to the programme conditions and ensuring continuity despite political transitions.

“We thank President Mahama as well. Even with the IMF conditions left by his predecessor, he did not shift blame. He followed the rules and worked with his team to complete the process,” she noted.

Nana Yaa Jantuah further acknowledged the role of the Finance Minister and his team in managing the economy during the programme period.

“We also thank the Finance Minister and his team for their work,” she added.

According to her, Ghana should now focus on strengthening its economy to avoid returning to IMF support in the future.

“We don’t have to go back to the IMF,” she stated. “The resources in this country are enough. If we manage them well, there will be no need to keep borrowing.”

She stressed that Ghana has already had multiple engagements with the Fund and should aim for long-term independence.

“17 times at the IMF is enough. We need to tell ourselves that we will no longer depend on external support,” she said.

Nana Yaa Jantuah added that the country must focus on developing its own resources for national growth.

“We should make up our minds that no more IMF support. Let’s use our own resources to build a better Ghana,” she said.

She concluded by expressing confidence that Ghana’s exit from the programme should mark a turning point in economic management.

“We are happy that we are out of it, and we believe we will remain out of it going forward,” she said.

Her comments follow Ghana’s announcement of the successful completion of its three-year US$3 billion IMF-supported programme, following a staff-level agreement on the final review of the arrangement.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, the former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) said she does not support the use of insults in political communication, regardless of who is involved.

“Anybody at all wants to insult President Mahama. I don’t like insults, no matter who you are,” she said. “When we were little, my father taught us not to insult, and there are some words we simply do not use. Even now, I avoid certain words.”

She added that political leaders should focus on constructive criticism rather than personal attacks.

“You can criticize a person, but raw insults are bad,” she stated.

Nana Yaa Jantuah further described the situation as a matter of discipline rather than politics, arguing that every political party has internal mechanisms to deal with misconduct.

“This is not political. It is about indiscipline, and the party must discipline him,” she said. “Every party has a disciplinary committee, so I am surprised the NPP appears not to be using its disciplinary structures.”

She referenced previous disciplinary actions within the party, adding:

“When it came to Adjoa Safo, you said you were dragging her to the disciplinary committee. When it comes to someone else, you think he was not treated well.”

According to her, political parties must ensure consistency in enforcing rules to maintain credibility and order.

“The party should have summoned him long ago. There should be decorum in public discourse,” she said.

Nana Yaa Jantuah expressed surprise that the issue was being politicised, insisting it should be treated as a matter of conduct.

“I am shocked they are making politics out of it,” she said.

She compared the situation to poor upbringing and discipline, adding:

“It is like a child who was not properly raised and goes out insulting people regardless of status. That is what Abronye did, and he is facing the consequences of his actions.”

Her comments come in the wake of Abronye’s arrest and detention, which has generated public and political debate across the country.

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen, he recounted his difficult experience living with end-stage renal disease and revealed that he once survived a frightening health emergency during treatment.

According to him, about three years ago, he suffered a severe drop in blood pressure after a dialysis session and collapsed at home.

“I fractured my hip. My BP dropped and that was it. I went off. My house help was the one who saved me,” he recalled.

The incident left him with a hip fracture and forced him to rely on a full-time driver due to the physical strain and weakness associated with dialysis treatment.

He urged patients to seek proper medical attention rather than depending on unproven treatments.

“Once it gets to Stage Four, you are at end-stage. There is no way to reverse it. You should seek proper medical care instead of relying on concoctions,” he advised.

Despite the challenges, Mr Adu Asare said he continues to stay active and maintain a positive outlook on life.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he explained that many Ghanaians are not undocumented migrants, but face delays in the renewal of legal documents.

“Most of them have papers, but the issue is that when their permits or asylum documents expire, they go to the department responsible for renewals,” he said.

According to him, delays in processing applications have in some cases lasted for years, leading to wrongful classification of affected individuals as illegal immigrants.

“Some have submitted their documents for three years with no response, and others for four to five years. Because of this delay, they are being categorised as illegal immigrants, which is not the case,” he stated.

Mr. Quashie said the Ghana mission has raised the issue with South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, arguing that the delays are contributing to tensions affecting Ghanaians.

“We told the Department of Home Affairs that these are the real problems. You cannot blame Ghanaian citizens for administrative delays beyond their control,” he explained.

He further revealed that discussions are ongoing for a possible special visa arrangement to ease the burden on affected Ghanaians.

“They said they are considering a special visa permit regime. Our visa-free arrangement is for 90 days, but that is not enough. We are pushing for longer permits so Ghanaians can live and work legally,” he said.

The High Commissioner noted that frequent changes in South Africa’s Home Affairs leadership have also affected policy consistency.

“Over the years, they have changed ministers several times, and each comes with new regulations. People applying under old systems sometimes suffer the consequences. They say they are trying to rectify it, so we are waiting,” he added.

Mr. Quashie stressed that governments have a responsibility to protect both citizens and foreign nationals living within their borders.

“Every country has a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of both its citizens and immigrants,” he said.

He also noted that South African authorities have assured the Ghana mission of improved cooperation and have taken steps to address concerns raised.

“They have apologised to us and are trying to stop some of the demonstrations. We can confidently say there is a shift in approach,” he stated.

On security, he said the mission has instructed Ghanaians to report any incidents to local police and the embassy for immediate action.

“We have told them to report any challenges. If anything happens and it is not addressed, we will not take it lightly,” he warned.

He further disclosed that no Ghanaian has lost their life in the recent incidents, according to official records.

Mr. Quashie added that the mission has created communication platforms, including a WhatsApp network, to receive real-time updates from Ghanaian associations and individuals across South Africa.

His comments come amid renewed concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in some parts of South Africa.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he said some individuals in South Africa were taking the law into their own hands, a situation the mission is working to reverse.

“We are doing what we can diplomatically to ensure that the tensions and happenings will be resolved. Some South Africans have taken the law into their own hands, and we are trying to reverse that unfortunate development,” he said.

Mr. Quashie noted that many Ghanaians in affected areas are unable to open their shops due to fear and insecurity.

He also revealed that some parents are currently keeping their children out of school because of safety concerns.

“Most of the Ghanaians are unable to open their shops. Most of them can’t take their kids to school because of what happens to them in some of the schools. We have advised them not to take their children to school until the situation is under control,” he stated.

On the number of Ghanaians in South Africa, the High Commissioner said the mission has been conducting registration exercises to obtain accurate data.

“When I took over, we did registration of Ghanaians in South Africa. So far, we have close to 16,000 to 17,000, but we are still updating the database,” he explained.

He added that the commonly circulated figure of about 500,000 Ghanaians in South Africa is inaccurate.

“I can confirm that the Ghanaian population here is a little over 15,000 who have registered. It is not true that we are 500,000. Even the South African authorities have their records, and we have compared data,” he said.

Mr. Quashie further disclosed that outreach programmes were carried out in rural and interior communities to register Ghanaians living in hard-to-reach areas.

“We went to interior places and villages ourselves to register Ghanaian residents there,” he noted.

His comments come amid growing concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa following renewed reports of tensions in some communities.

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“In the coming days, there will be a series of activities, including massive demonstrations, protests and agitations. We want the international community to know that President Mahama is suppressing free speech,” he stated.

Mr. Boakye said the party intends to engage international partners, diplomatic missions, traditional leaders and religious bodies to highlight its concerns.

“We will speak to the international community and the diplomatic corps. We will go to the National House of Chiefs and speak to the leaders there. We will also engage religious bodies and the Christian Council so they are aware of what is happening to us,” he said in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show.

He added that the party believes it must be given the space to freely express its views.

“The media should also give us the chance to express our views,” he noted.

He further criticised recent arrests, arguing that some of the actions being taken by authorities do not amount to criminal offences.

“To arrest someone when what the person did does not even border on criminality and then accuse the person of a crime is very bad,” he said.

Mr. Boakye also referenced the ongoing debate around intermittent power supply, popularly known as “dumsor,” insisting that public commentary on national issues should not be criminalised.

“Who doesn’t know dumsor is back?” he added.

His comments follow the rearrest of the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Kwame Baffoe, who has been remanded for two weeks as investigations continue into allegations of misinformation and offensive public statements.

The comments also come after the arrest of Agona West Constituency Organiser, David Essandoh, following allegations that he criticised President John Dramani Mahama over the return of intermittent power outages.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he explained that their friendship dates back to their early years, adding that the MP has always remained close to him even before becoming a legislator.

“I have known Ohene Frimpong long before he became an MP. We started playing together when we were young,” he said.

He revealed that the MP spent time abroad but frequently returned home and later established a radio station, where he employed him, further strengthening their bond.

“He was abroad but used to come home regularly. He even opened a radio station and employed me, so we were close friends long before politics,” he added.

Nana Poku Nyantakyi also addressed public speculation about the MP’s family background, particularly claims that he is a twin. He clarified that based on his long-standing personal knowledge of him, he has never known Ohene Kwame Frimpong to be a twin.

“I don’t know him to be a twin. I know his parents and I know he is from Asante Akyem. We are even related on our paternal side,” he explained.

This follows a report by the Republic Newspaper claiming that the lawmaker is a twin amid his detention in the Netherlands.

However, Nana Poku noted that he could not completely rule out information beyond his personal knowledge, saying he is unaware of any other siblings apart from those he already knows.

“If he has other siblings, especially a twin, then I am not aware. There are things I may not be able to go into details about,” he said.

His comments come after Parliament confirmed that Ohene Kwame Frimpong was detained on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. The Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, issued a statement confirming the development, while Parliament also indicated that it is engaging Ghana’s diplomatic mission in The Hague to gather further information.

Nana Poku Nyantakyi said the situation has left him and others close to the MP hopeful and prayerful.

“We are praying and hoping that everything will go well and that God will bring him back to continue his work as MP,” he said.

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He made the comments during an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, reacting to the ongoing detention of party officials.

Mr. Boakye criticised the conduct of the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) during the interrogation of Agona West Constituency Organiser, David Essandoh, saying even basic conditions at the facility reflected the country’s wider power challenges.

“When BNI were investigating the Agona West Constituency Organiser, David Essandoh, their lights were off and they had generators making noise. You could hear the generators running,” he said.

“I even told one of the officers that even the lights are off here, so is dumsor not back?” he added.

He questioned the priorities of state authorities, arguing that attention should be focused on more pressing national issues.

“Why do you chase after things that are not important? The government has nothing better to do,” he said.

He added that issues such as power shortages, challenges faced by cocoa farmers, and concerns from nurses should be receiving greater attention.

“Serious things are happening in the country. We are suffering from dumsor, cocoa farmers are crying, nurses are crying for better conditions, yet they will not concentrate on such concerns,” he stated.

Mr. Boakye insisted that the party would resist any attempts to silence its members.

“For the NPP, we will not be intimidated. Nothing is going to stop us,” he said.

“If that is how they want it, then they will have to arrest all of us.”

His comments follow the rearrest of the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Kwame Baffoe, who has been remanded for two weeks as investigations continue into allegations of misinformation and offensive public statements.

It also comes after the arrest of David Essandoh, Agona West Constituency Organiser, over allegations that he criticised President John Dramani Mahama regarding the return of intermittent power outages, popularly known as “dumsor.”

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Nana Poku Nyantakyi said the MP was last in contact with them on Wednesday, when he mentioned he was in the Netherlands after informing them earlier on Saturday that he would be travelling.

“I was with him on Saturday and he told me he would be travelling. On Wednesday, I spoke to him on phone and he said he was in the Netherlands,” he recounted.

According to him, the situation only became public after an official communication from Parliament confirmed that the MP had been detained.

He stressed that Parliament would not release information that was untrue, adding that initial uncertainty pushed them to verify the reports independently.

“Parliament will not tell us what is not true. After he left, we didn’t hear from him until the statement came out, so we did our checks and confirmed it was true,” he said.

Nana Poku noted that the exact reason for the MP’s detention remains unclear, saying neither the MP nor his legal team has been formally informed of the grounds for the arrest.

“At the moment, we don’t know the cause of the arrest because those who effected the arrest haven’t even told him anything,” he explained, adding that lawyers are currently engaging authorities to obtain clarity.

He further revealed that even official arrest documentation had not yet been fully accessed by the legal team handling the case in Amsterdam, as processes were still ongoing.

“The prosecutor in charge and the legal representatives are still processing and releasing the necessary documents for review,” he added.

He appealed for calm in public discussions on the matter, urging the media to avoid speculation that could interfere with efforts to resolve the situation.

“We want to urge all media houses not to be throwing in things that haven’t been confirmed… let’s stay calm and don’t jeopardise the issues,” he said.

Parliament has already confirmed that Ohene Kwame Frimpong was arrested on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam.

The House said it has formally been informed and is engaging Ghana’s diplomatic mission in The Hague to gather further details on the case as investigations and diplomatic processes continue.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Nana Boakye said he first heard about the matter about two weeks ago when he was informed that the organiser had received a message from the CID to report to their office in Accra.

“Like two weeks ago, I heard that our organiser had received a message from the CID to report to Accra,” he said.

He explained that at the time, he asked lawyer Enoch Afoakwa to look into the matter.

According to him, when the lawyer later contacted Mr Essandoh, the organiser explained that he was being accused of publishing false information on social media involving a billboard.

“He told the lawyer it was about false publication. They claimed he posted something on Facebook about a billboard with President Mahama and the words ‘dumsor is back’,” Nana B recounted.

However, the CID insisted the image in question was different.

“The CID told me the original billboard was actually a picture of President Mahama taken on 6th March, which was displayed in town. So the one he shared was not the same billboard they were referring to,” he added.

Nana Boakye said he was surprised that such a matter could lead to an arrest.

“I was shocked because this is not a serious case that warrants the arrest of our Agona West organiser,” he said.

He further noted that when they contacted the CID, officers reportedly confirmed that the issue was related to the billboard image.

“When we asked the CID if that was the only issue, they said yes,” he stated.

According to him, communication from the CID later became unclear.

“After that, we didn’t hear from them again,” he said.

Nana Boakye also described how the arrest eventually took place.

“Just yesterday, Monday, I was in a meeting when I started receiving calls from the Central Region. When I stepped out, I was told that around 6pm, the organiser was sitting with some executives when a Land Cruiser drove past, returned with two vehicles, and about 10 men got down,” he said.

“They asked him to get up, took his phone, and forced him into the vehicle before driving off,” he added.

Meanwhile, the NPP in Agona West is demanding the immediate release of their constituency organiser, following his reported arrest by a joint team of police and National Security operatives.

The party claims Mr Essandoh was picked up after allegedly criticising President John Dramani Mahama over the return of intermittent power outages, commonly known as “dumsor.”

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, said efforts to trace Mr Essandoh since the arrest on Monday, May 11, 2026, have been unsuccessful.

“As I speak to you this morning, we don’t know his whereabouts. Yesterday, I moved around just so I could see him but to no avail,” he said.

According to him, the party has contacted the CID, National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) and National Security, but all the institutions denied involvement in the operation.

“We have contacted the CID, NIB and National Security but they are all saying they know nothing about the operation and that it was not their personnel who effected the arrest,” he stated.

Mr Boakye said the arrest was carried out swiftly by armed and masked men who arrived in two Land Cruisers, making it difficult for eyewitnesses to identify the vehicles’ registration numbers.

“The arrest was so swift that the people around couldn’t even remember the number plates of the vehicles. But they were armed and masked,” he claimed.

He added that he returned home around 1 a.m. after spending hours searching for the organiser.

The NPP National Organiser questioned the basis for the arrest, insisting that many Ghanaians continue to openly express concerns about intermittent power outages, popularly known as “dumsor.”

“Who should be arrested for making comments on dumsor? Who doesn’t talk about dumsor? Is that not the reality Ghanaians are going through?” he asked.

Mr Boakye also disclosed that he personally spoke with a CID officer regarding the matter. According to him, the explanation given was that officials had investigated a billboard linked to the case and concluded that it did not contain a dumsor message as initially alleged.

“He said they had gone to check the billboard and it was not about dumsor. It was rather a message celebrating Mahama on March 6, so he is guilty of publication of false news,” he recounted.

He expressed surprise that although the invitation was allegedly issued by the CID, the same institution later denied knowledge of the arrest.

“The invitation was extended by the CID and after his arrest, they are saying they don’t know about it,” he added.

Mr Boakye said the party intends to file an official complaint with the Police over the incident.

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The allegation was made by the inspector’s wife in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, where she also raised concerns about alleged inaction by the police after the case was reported.

“We reported the matter to the police, but nothing was done for months,” she said.

According to her, the incident was first reported at Agona, where the suspect is based, but she claims the case was not properly handled.

“I kept following up, but they kept telling me to go and come back,” she added.

She explained that the matter was later moved to Koforidua, where the victim attempted to continue schooling but struggled emotionally.

“My daughter cannot even concentrate in school because of the trauma and flashbacks,” she said.

The woman stated that they were later referred to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) in Koforidua and subsequently to the national headquarters in Accra.

According to her, medical tests conducted in both Koforidua and Accra also indicated that the girl has contracted HIV.

“All the tests confirmed she has HIV,” she said.

She further disclosed that a petition was sent to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in January. She said the inspector was later invited for questioning in Accra but denied the allegations.

“The officer was invited for interrogation, but he denied everything,” she said.

The wife added that despite several complaints and referrals, no decisive action has been taken.

“We have done all we can, but justice is still not served,” she said.

She also alleged that the abuse started when the victim was about 10 to 11 years old and said the 15-year-old girl is currently experiencing severe emotional trauma.

“He keeps insulting us whenever we try to reach him,” she added.

She is therefore calling for swift action, insisting that the matter be fully investigated and justice served.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Dr Nawaane said responsibility for failures in the health system should not be limited to junior staff alone, but must also include leaders who were on duty at the time of such incidents.

“If we want things to work well, then we have to do it well,” he said.

He stressed that any leader who fails in their duty to ensure proper functioning of a facility must also be held accountable, adding that in some cases, resignation may be the appropriate course of action.

“Not only the doctor who was on duty, but any leader who was there when the issue happened and refused to help,” he said. “Sometimes our leaders have to resign voluntarily. If you can’t lead a place properly, then you have to resign. It’s as simple as that.”

Dr Nawaane, however, cautioned against unfairly blaming all health workers for isolated incidents, noting that many professionals in the sector are committed and hardworking.

“There are so many health professionals in this country, but the majority of them are very good and committed to their work,” he said. “So if you don’t say it well, you end up punishing the good ones.”

He called for proper investigations to identify those directly responsible for failures rather than generalising the issue.

“We have to look for what is wrong, name and shame, and pursue the person who caused the damage,” he stated. “But let’s not generalise and attack all health professionals.”

Drawing on his experience as a medical professional for over three decades, Dr Nawaane said many health workers sacrifice their time and energy to save lives, and should not be lumped together with those who act negligently.

“I have worked for 33 good years as a medical professional and I have met many good people in the field who don’t joke with their work and even sacrifice their own lives for patients,” he said.

He also criticised the tendency to focus on government infrastructure challenges after such incidents, arguing that attention should first be on whether available resources were properly used.

“The mistake we make as a country is that after such incidents, we start talking about government and equipment,” he said. “Even the little we have, did they use it properly for the patient?”

Dr Nawaane added that while long-term improvements in health infrastructure are important, they should not distract from addressing immediate failures in care delivery.

“These are long-term measures government can work on,” he said. “But even as health professionals, when you meet an accident case, you are expected to act. So why was nothing done?”

He concluded by urging a shift in national conversation away from blaming infrastructure alone.

“Let’s stop the narrative that we only need more hospitals and equipment, because it makes us lose focus on the real issue,” he said.

Charles Amissah died on February 6, 2026, following a hit-and-run incident at the Circle Overpass after he was reportedly denied admission at multiple health facilities before his death.

The incident led to the formation of an investigative committee to examine the circumstances surrounding his death, particularly concerns about delays in treatment and gaps in emergency care.

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