24hr Market: Prioritize Protection; Hajia Charity’s Call to President Mahama, Interior, and Defense Ministers
Former Upper East Regional Women’s Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Hajia Charity Chariyam, has issued a passionate call for enhanced security measures as the government rolls out its 24-hour market initiative across the country. While the initiative has been welcomed by many, Hajia Charity, known for her courage and candid opinions, has raised an alarm over a looming danger: armed robbery. In an interview with Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen of Apexnewsgh, she warned that women who work late into the night face daily threats, and without proper protection, the new policy could do more harm than good. “Imagine a woman selling pepper or salt all day, only to be attacked on her way home and lose her hard-earned money,” she said. “Many of these women rely on small loans from banks or groups such as MASLOC. If robbed, they are left with nothing but debt. Their capital is already small; losing it means they cannot sustain their families or businesses.” President John Dramani Mahama has described the 24-hour market policy as a major campaign promise aimed at creating wealth in beneficiary communities. Speaking at a sod-cutting ceremony for a model market in Bimbilla in the Northern Region, he explained that the modern multipurpose markets would depart from traditional designs, offering banking services, storage, fire and security protection, restaurants, crèches, and clinics to handle traders’ emergency health needs. He assured that all 261 districts of Ghana would eventually benefit. Hajia Charity endorses the president’s vision but insists that a well-structured, round-the-clock security system must accompany it. She proposed that security personnel work in three shifts, morning, afternoon, and night, to ensure markets remain protected at all hours. Without this, she warned, the fear of robbery would only increase, discouraging traders from participating. Beyond immediate protection, she called for long-term solutions to address the root causes of crime. “It’s not just men; even women are involved in robbery out of desperation,” she noted. She urged the government and community leaders to empower the youth with jobs and skills training in trades such as welding, tailoring, and more, so that young people can earn an honest living. Offering a message of hope, Hajia Charity shared the story of some local businessmen who started small and became billionaires through perseverance and honest work. She appealed to President Mahama, the Interior Minister, and the Defense Minister to prioritize both security and empowerment. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alagumgube Fires Back at Greater Accra Minister Over “Northern Transfer” Comment
Popular social commentator and founder of Alagumgube Mr. Gabriel Agambila has strongly criticised Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo over comments suggesting that officers who approve illegal buildings could be transferred to Northern Ghana as punishment. The minister’s remarks, made during a meeting with city authorities amid ongoing efforts to tackle unauthorized structures and poor urban planning in Accra, have sparked widespread backlash across the country. According to reports, Linda Ocloo warned that officials who continue to sanction illegal developments may be reassigned to the northern part of Ghana. Reacting sharply to the statement, Alagumgube described the comment as unfortunate and disrespectful to people living in the northern regions. He argued that portraying Northern Ghana as a place of punishment only reinforces harmful stereotypes and threatens national cohesion. “The North is not a punishment zone,” he stressed, insisting that every region in Ghana deserves equal respect and recognition regardless of geographical location or level of development. Alagumgube further called on public officials to be measured in their public comments, especially on matters capable of creating division among citizens. According to him, leadership must promote unity and inclusion rather than deepen regional sentiments through careless remarks. The controversy has since generated heated public debate, with political figures, civil society groups, and social media users condemning the minister’s statement. The Minority Caucus in Parliament also joined calls criticising the remarks and demanding greater sensitivity from government appointees. Following the growing backlash, Linda Ocloo has apologised for the comment, explaining that it was a slip of the tongue and was never intended to demean people from Northern Ghana. Despite the apology, the incident has reignited conversations about regional discrimination, national unity, and the need for public officials to exercise caution in their public communication. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Revives “Setting the Records Straight” Platform to Counter NPP Propaganda Claims
The governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially re-launched its “Setting the Records Straight” platform, describing the initiative as a renewed communication strategy aimed at countering what it says is a deliberate misinformation campaign by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). Addressing a press conference on behalf of the party, Deputy Communications Officer Godwin Ako Gunn said the platform was more than just a media engagement exercise, insisting it was a political responsibility to defend truth, safeguard democratic gains, and prevent propaganda from distorting public understanding of national issues. According to Mr. Gunn, the NPP had revived what he described as a “machinery of misinformation, half-baked truths, and calculated propaganda” in an attempt to reshape public perception following what the NDC called the opposition party’s poor record in government. He argued that the NPP was seeking to rewrite recent political and economic history, particularly on matters concerning Ghana’s economy and the financial performance of the Bank of Ghana (BoG). The NDC traced the origins of the “Setting the Records Straight” platform to the early 2000s when, according to the party, the then-incoming NPP administration under former President John Agyekum Kufuor attempted to downplay and distort the achievements of former President Jerry John Rawlings’ administration through sustained propaganda. The party said the current political climate bears similar characteristics, making it necessary to revive the platform as a corrective communication tool. As part of its defence of previous NDC administrations, the party highlighted several projects it described as significant national achievements. These included the construction of more than 200 Community Day Senior High Schools, popularly known as E-blocks, Terminal 3 of the Accra International Airport, and the expansion of the Kumasi Airport. The NDC maintained that these accomplishments were overshadowed during the 2016 election campaign by what it termed fabricated stories and politically motivated narratives surrounding issues such as “dumsor,” the “Amina Mohammed Yutong bus saga,” and “Nkomfem flights.” Mr. Gunn claimed that similar propaganda tactics were now being used against the current NDC administration, particularly in relation to its economic policies and state institutions. A major focus of the press conference was the ongoing debate over the Bank of Ghana’s 2025 financial results. The NDC dismissed claims by the NPP that the central bank had recorded a GHS44 billion loss, describing the allegation as “unsubstantiated and pure propaganda.” Instead, the party argued that the reported GHS15.6 billion loss reflected deliberate intervention measures implemented by the central bank to stabilise the economy. According to the NDC, the Bank of Ghana’s policy actions had contributed to improving macroeconomic indicators, including declining inflation, a stronger cedi, reduced cost-of-living pressures, and better debt sustainability. The party further accused the opposition of attempting to undermine public confidence in state institutions by portraying the central bank’s interventions as reckless financial losses. The occasion was also used to rally party executives and government appointees to remain united and disciplined as the NDC intensifies its communication efforts. Mr. Gunn urged regional, constituency, and branch executives to ensure that ongoing reorganisation efforts strengthen rather than divide the party. He announced that the “Setting the Record Straight” platform would now operate as a continuous and institutionalised communication mechanism for the NDC. “We will speak. We will correct. We will defend the truth, every single day,” Mr. Gunn declared. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alagumgube Founder Pleads with President Mahama to Rethink 24-Hour Economy
As Ghana prepares for a potential shift to a 24-hour economy, Alagumgube Founder is urging the president to pump the brakes, at least for the northern regions. Mr. Gabriel Agambila, Founder of Alagumgube, has made a passionate appeal to President John Mahama to reconsider specific aspects of the proposed 24-hour economy policy. Speaking from his observations after spending one year away from the diaspora and returning home, Agambila warns that what works in theory may clash sharply with local realities. According to Mr. Agambila, Bolgatanga, the capital of the Upper East Region, effectively shuts down soon after nightfall. “Only a few shops are open past 8 pm,” he noted. He pointed out that even the main market in the regional capital already experiences significant armed robbery during daylight hours. “The situation is alarming during the day,” Agambila said. “So you can imagine what would happen at night in a 24-hour market.” He raised concerns that such markets would likely be located on the outskirts of town, assuming district assemblies can even acquire suitable land for that purpose. Drawing on northern traditions, Agambila explained that in many households, once the main gate is closed at night, no one is permitted to leave. “Even young men, the head of the house has to enter through a ladder at the back of the house,” he described. Beyond tradition, he painted a grim picture of potential consequences: Women would be the primary patrons of night markets, making them vulnerable targets for robbery and rape. Marriages could break down, as husbands might take advantage of wives being away at night to bring in girlfriends or visit their own lovers. Rather than rushing into a full 24-hour economy, Agambila is asking President Mahama to redirect resources toward more immediate, practical upgrades: Powerful floodlights in existing markets Additional police stations and fire tenders Clinics within already established markets He believes these improvements should come first, and stay in place “until such a time that armed robbery is reduced in the region.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
BNI Invites Former Scholarship Secretariat Registrar Over Alleged Scandal
The Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI) has invited Dr Kingsley Agyemang, the former Registrar of the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat, to assist with investigations into an alleged scholarship allocation scandal during his tenure under the previous NPP administration. Dr Agyemang confirmed to Citi News that he had honoured the BNI’s invitation, reporting to the Bureau on Tuesday, May 5, where he provided a formal statement and was subsequently released after the engagement. The BNI’s action follows a recent investigative report by The Fourth Estate, which alleged that scholarships meant for needy students were being disproportionately awarded to well-connected and affluent individuals across the country. Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has revealed it is also conducting a separate investigation into the operations of the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat, with its probe dating back to July 2023. These parallel investigations have heightened public attention on the management of the scholarship scheme, as calls mount for greater transparency and accountability in the award of educational support nationwide. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
EOCO Re-Arrests Former NAFCO CEO and Wife Minutes After Court Discharge in High-Profile Food Supply Case
In a dramatic twist on Tuesday, May 5, operatives from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) re-arrested the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Food and Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), Hanan Abdul-Wahab, and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni, barely moments after they were discharged by an Accra court. The couple’s re-arrest occurred shortly after the Attorney-General’s Department had withdrawn all criminal charges against them in a case linked to the alleged loss of GH¢78 million under the national school feeding programme. Earlier that day, the courtroom witnessed a surprising turn when Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem-Sai informed the presiding judge of the prosecution’s decision to discontinue proceedings against Hanan Abdul-Wahab, his wife, and other accused persons and companies. He announced that fresh evidence had emerged, prompting the withdrawal to ensure “a fair and speedy trial in accordance with the Constitution.” With the prosecution’s decision, the court struck out all charges and discharged the accused. However, the relief for the former NAFCO boss and his wife was short-lived. As they exited the courtroom, EOCO officials moved in swiftly to place them under arrest once again. The specific reasons for this re-arrest have not yet been disclosed by authorities, leaving both legal observers and the public speculating about the next phase of the case. The high-profile trial has been marred by a series of legal tussles, including disagreements over the admissibility of witness statements and the role of EOCO officers in the prosecution. At a previous hearing, defence lawyers had challenged the participation of an EOCO officer, prompting Justice Achibonga to direct the Attorney-General’s Department to provide evidence of proper authorisation for the officer’s involvement. The latest development is set to intensify public scrutiny, raising significant questions about the legal and procedural processes underpinning both the withdrawal of charges and EOCO’s immediate re-arrest of the couple. As the case continues to unfold, attention remains fixed on the next moves by both the prosecution and law enforcement authorities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bolgatanga MCE Highlights Health and Development Achievements During NDC Chairman’s Visit
When the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, arrived in Bolgatanga for his Thank You Tour, he was greeted not just with applause, but with stories of transformation and hope. The gathering was more than ceremonial; it was a celebration of hard-won progress and a recommitment to the municipality’s future. Taking center stage, Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive Roland Atanga Ayoo welcomed the party chairman and supporters with pride. He noted that the visit underscored the NDC’s dedication to building strong grassroots networks and staying deeply engaged with the people, the foundation of the party’s strength. “Bolgatanga Municipality,” Mr. Ayoo proclaimed, “has always played a strategic role in the Upper East Region’s socio-economic and political growth. Our people are resilient and united by a shared pursuit of development, democracy, and progress.” Mr. Ayoo then shared the results of months of dedicated effort. Since taking office in April 2025, he had vowed to work side by side with stakeholders to uplift the municipality. And true to his word, achievements could be seen across education, health, agriculture, social welfare, and sanitation. Education, he said, was witnessing a renaissance: New classroom blocks were springing up in Dorongo Aperiga, Yorogo Gaabisi, and Kologu Aguusi. The Anateem Kindergarten block had been completed, and the Nyariga classroom block renovated. With 1,200 dual desks and nearly 12,000 textbooks distributed, and over 600 teachers trained, the path was set for better learning outcomes, especially for girls, as hundreds received support for their BECE exams. But it was in healthcare that the MCE’s pride shone brightest. According to Mr. Ayoo, the Yipaala Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound had been handed over to the Ghana Health Service, while other facilities in Zaare East, Kulbia, and Sawaba were also completed. Ongoing construction and renovations at Waribisi, Sumbrungu Anateem, and Daporetindongo promised even greater access to healthcare in the near future. Public health campaigns and strong partnerships were raising awareness and improving services, especially for mothers and children. Agriculture, the backbone of the local economy, was thriving. Over 800 groups, nearly 20,000 farmers, joined the Feed Ghana Program, while women food processors received essential startup kits. Training and business support empowered local artisans and entrepreneurs, with carpenters, hairdressers, and dressmakers benefiting from the National Apprenticeship Programme. Social protection initiatives were also bearing fruit. Through the LEAP program, more than 1,100 households received over 3.1 million Ghana Cedis in grants, with further expansion on the horizon. Persons with Disabilities were supported with funds, equipment, and stipends, helping transform lives and livelihoods. The MCE also highlighted the municipality’s push for environmental cleanliness, with intensified clean-up campaigns and improved waste management. Public education, radio outreach, and collaboration with security agencies were key to fostering a healthy, peaceful community. Yet, challenges remained. Mr. Ayoo called for support to complete unfinished dormitories at ZAMSTECH, finish the abandoned polyclinic, elevate Bolgatanga to metropolitan status, and resolve the Bolgatanga Skin dispute for lasting peace and future development. Expressing gratitude to the NDC’s national leadership, the hardworking Member of Parliament, and the people of Bolgatanga, Mr. Ayoo closed with a warm invitation to Mr. Nketia. “Feel at home,” he said. “The people of Bolgatanga are renowned for their hospitality, and we are honored to host you.” With these words, the MCE brought his address to an end, leaving the assembly with a sense of pride in their achievements and hope for even greater progress as a united community. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alagumgube Calls for Timely Sod-Cutting of Upper East Airport as Workers Mark May Day
A diaspora-based language and development association, Alagumgube, has used this year’s May Day celebration to renew its call for the swift sod cutting of a proposed airport in the Upper East Region. In a press statement issued during the 2026 May Day observances, the association, founded in New Jersey, USA, by indigenes of the Upper East Region, said it proudly joined workers across Ghana and beyond to commemorate the day. Alagumgube, which has seven active branches and a growing footprint in Africa, noted its continued commitment to advocating for the socio‑economic development of the Upper East Region. The group said its efforts have already contributed to key milestones, including the establishment of a Passport Office in the region. Currently, the association’s major focus is the development and sod‑cutting of an airport in the Upper East Region. Through sustained advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration with government, the project has gained national attention, according to the statement. Technical teams have assessed the proposed site, and significant preparatory work has been undertaken. On the other hand, Alagumgube is appealing for a bypass to ease traffic flow through Bolgatanga, citing the heavy trucks that pass through the city en route to other neighbouring countries. “As we participate in the May Day march, we reaffirm our call for the timely sod cutting of the Upper East Airport, which we believe will enhance connectivity, create jobs, and accelerate regional development,” the statement read. Alagumgube said it stands united in purpose, both in the diaspora and at home, working together to build a stronger and more prosperous Upper East Region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Asiedu Nketiah Urges Delegates to Replace Branch Leaders Who Undermined Party in 2024
The National Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has called on party delegates in the Upper East Region to support him by electing or re-electing loyal members in the upcoming branch elections. During his two-day Thank You Tour of the region, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah addressed party members, expressing concern over the actions of some individuals during the 2024 campaign season. He lamented that certain members had undermined the party by campaigning against their own candidates, an act he strongly condemned. Mr. Asiedu Nketiah advocated for those who worked against the party to be retired from leadership roles. “We are going for a branch election; there are people who will work for NDC in the daytime and work for NPP at night. If you notice such people, retire them,” he urged. He stressed the importance of rewarding loyalty and commitment: “If a vehicle did not spoil, you don’t take it to a workshop.” Mr. Asiedu Nketiah encouraged delegates to maintain those who have served the party diligently and contributed positively to its progress. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Nabdam’s Loyalty Deserves More–Chief Naab Bileehsong Lagwonht Tells NDC Leadership
Chief Naab Bileehsong Lagwonht of Kontibtaabig, under the Sakote Traditional Area, delivered a powerful and unvarnished message to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the party’s Thank You Tour, led by National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah on Monday. Addressing the crowd, Chief Lagwonht emphasized Nabdam’s decades-long support for the NDC, stating, “The people of Nabdam have sacrificed for the governing party for 26 years, yet there is little to show for our loyalty.” With remarkable candor, the Chief highlighted how close the NDC came to losing the Nabdam parliamentary seat to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and singled out Honorable Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane for special recognition. “He used his own resources to repair our broken roads, like the Yakuti Road, which we now enjoy. Snatching the seat from the NPP and winning by 3,000 votes deserves commendation,” he noted. Drawing wisdom from a local bishop, Chief Lagwonht remarked, “If you walk in the light, everything will be in your glory. Nabdam has walked in the light of the NDC for almost 26 years, but what we are receiving is not what we envisioned.” The Chief did not shy away from pointing out unfulfilled promises, such as the poor state of the Assamese Road. He also praised Honorable Asiedu Nketiah as a true grassroots leader: “I admire you from afar. You are the one who took the floor yesterday. Nabdam deserves more because we have always voted for you.” Chief Lagwonht reminded the NDC of repeated, unanswered appeals for development: “Even when you visited to support another party, our advice was not heeded. I trust your next minister will consider Nabdam.” He drew attention to the abandoned Agenda 111 hospital project and the struggles of local farmers. “Our people are mostly farmers. The NPP promised One Village One Dam, but did you see it? We ask for at least three major dams for dry-season farming, so our people have opportunities and won’t be forced into other things.” Water scarcity remains a serious concern. “While the DCE and Regional Minister have made efforts, like providing 74 boreholes, it is not enough. Water is life. We need more,” the Chief stressed. In closing, Chief Naab Bileehsong Lagwonht challenged the NDC to take concrete action. “Analyze our situation and address our issues. These are the challenges confronting us. Nabdam deserves more for our loyalty. Trust us and keep us in your good books.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com