Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Receives National Service Ghost Names Scandal Dossier

Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has announced that his team, Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), received a comprehensive dossier on the National Service ghost names scandal on December 20th, 2024. This scandal, according to conservative estimates, has cost the Ghanaian state over GHS500 million.

The delivery of the dossier marks a significant step in ORAL’s investigation into alleged corruption within the previous administration. Ablakwa expressed gratitude to The Fourth Estate and the Media Foundation for West Africa for their contribution to providing the information and for their commitment to journalistic integrity and national interest. The handover emphasizes the collaboration between governmental bodies and investigative journalists in uncovering and addressing instances of alleged corruption within the public sector.

The establishment of ORAL is directly linked to President-elect John Mahama’s election victory in the 2024 general elections. As part of his campaign platform, Mahama committed to establishing a team tasked with investigating and addressing alleged corruption within the previous administration of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. This initiative represents a core commitment to addressing the issue of corruption and holding those accountable for financial malfeasance within the public sector.

ORAL’s membership comprises a diverse group of individuals with significant expertise in finance, law, and investigative journalism. The team’s composition includes Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (Chairman), Mr. Daniel Domelevo (former Auditor-General), COP (Rtd) Nathaniel Kofi Boakye, Mr. Martin Kpebu (private legal practitioner), and Mr. Raymond Archer (investigative journalist). The selection reflects a commitment to bringing a multi-faceted approach to the investigation and ensuring a transparent and accountable process.

The investigation into the National Service ghost names scandal is expected to be thorough and comprehensive. The massive potential financial loss involved underscores the importance of the investigation and the need for a detailed examination of the alleged irregularities. The receipt of the dossier signals the commencement of a critical phase in the process. The information contained within will likely form the basis for further investigation and potential legal action to recover misappropriated funds and hold accountable those responsible. The establishment of ORAL and the pursuit of this investigation showcase a commitment from the incoming administration to address corruption and promote accountability within government.