UTAG-UG Demands Resignation of Auditor-General Over Controversial Payroll Audit Report
The University of Ghana Chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UG) has called for the immediate resignation of Auditor-General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu in light of a contentious payroll audit report that has raised serious concerns within the academic community. The demand follows the release of a special payroll verification audit from the Auditor-General’s office, which asserts that the University of Ghana overstated employee compensation by GH¢59.2 million between 2022 and 2024. However, UTAG-UG has vehemently disputed these findings, labeling the report as misleading and inaccurate. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, May 20, UTAG-UG General Secretary Jerry Joe Harrison criticized the audit as damaging to the university’s reputation and that of its staff. He emphasized that the report was released without allowing the university an opportunity to respond or clarify any discrepancies highlighted in the findings. Harrison accused the Auditor-General of ethical misconduct, stating that the way the audit was compiled disqualifies him from continuing in office. “It appears to us that the audit service is more interested in appearing to be working rather than doing the right thing, and in so doing, they ignore ethical standards that guide their profession,” he declared. Moreover, he pointed out that the University of Ghana was not given a chance to review or comment on the audit results before they were made public, which he deemed unfair and unethical. “The University of Ghana maintains that the audit report was not shared with them for them to make comments and clarify any discrepancies before this was made public. This is a serious breach of the ethics required of the audit service and the profession,” Harrison asserted. Declaring that the situation represents a failure of professional standards, UTAG-UG has called for decisive action. “For the Auditor-General to sit in his office and preside over such an institution that disregards ethical standard practice, we are hereby calling for the resignation of the Auditor-General, or we will petition the President for him to be removed,” Harrison concluded, underscoring the gravity of the issue as the university community rallies behind their call for accountability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Environmental Group Sounds Alarm Over Tree Felling Along Atomic-Kwabenya Highway
A Rocha Ghana, an environmental advocacy organization, has raised significant concerns regarding the ongoing destruction of trees along the Atomic-Kwabenya Highway. Apexnewsgh reports The group is calling on the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) to take immediate action to stop this practice and to embrace more sustainable methods of urban development. In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 20, A Rocha Ghana characterized the tree removals as “indiscriminate” and highlighted the broader implications for the environment. They warned that the continued deforestation poses a severe threat to local biodiversity, exacerbates urban heat, and ultimately leads to long-term ecological damage. “The felling of trees along the Atomic-Kwabenya Highway must cease immediately. A clear, enforceable plan for replanting and maintaining green cover is essential,” the group asserted, emphasizing the need for responsible stewardship of green spaces in urban environments. A Rocha Ghana advocated for a policy where any tree that is cut down should be replaced with at least two native species in suitable locations, accompanied by strict monitoring protocols to ensure their growth and survival. The organization stressed that sustainable urban development should balance infrastructure advancement with ecological responsibility. The group referenced a specific instance from the previous year, where two trees were “hurriedly felled” with support from the GAEC to accommodate the establishment of a fuel station near the Maker’s House Chapel. A Rocha questioned how such approval was granted for a development within a sensitive wetland zone situated between the Atomic Police Station and the GAEC entrance. “This development is very unfortunate and needless. Urban Roads had to pause construction works after public outcry to redesign the road to protect the trees. Now that the plan is set, other agents are going in to deliberately destroy the trees gradually. This is environmental sabotage and shameful,” the statement read. Furthermore, A Rocha Ghana criticized what they described as a “lazy approach” to urban forestry, where trees are often removed at the slightest perceived risk without taking measures to preserve or manage them properly. “The health of city residents and the ecological resilience of our urban spaces depend on proactive and progressive forest management. We must act now to prevent further environmental harm,” the organization concluded, imploring stakeholders to prioritize the environment in urban planning. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Empowering Young Minds: Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre’s Gift to BECE Candidates
In a heartwarming display of kindness and commitment to education, Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre has donated 1,500 mathematical sets to the Ghana Education Service (GES) in Zebilla. Apexnewsgh reports This generous gesture is part of a five-year journey to support and encourage young students, particularly those preparing for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). The mathematical sets will be distributed to all BECE candidates across the 59 basic schools in the district. This thoughtful donation serves as a reminder to the students that they are not alone in their academic pursuits. Mr. Julius Abanga Asigri, Deputy Director for Planning and Statistics at GES-Zebilla, graciously received the sets on behalf of the Service, ensuring they reach every candidate. As the students prepare to begin their exams on June 9, 2025, Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre’s message is clear: “Step into the exam room with confidence and courage, knowing we are always with you, always cheering you on.” This kind gesture is a testament to the power of community and support in helping young people achieve their goals. The donation has brought together the Honorable District Chief Executive, Mr. James Ayamweogo, the GES-Zebilla family, friends, and comrades, all of whom have shown their support for the students. As Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre aptly puts it, “Let us continue to uplift and stand with our younger siblings as they build the future they desire.” With the mathematical sets in hand, the BECE candidates are ready to take on their exams with confidence. Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre wishes them all the best, saying, “Thank you, and best of luck to all BECE candidates.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Resist Price Reductions Despite Cedi Appreciation
In Abossey Okai, spare parts dealers are resisting calls to lower prices, even as the Ghanaian cedi shows signs of recovery against the U.S. dollar. The dealers maintain that their current inventory was acquired when the exchange rate was significantly higher, leaving them with little choice but to keep prices as they are. Apexnewsgh reports This viewpoint starkly contrasts a directive issued by the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association, which has urged its members to adjust prices per the cedi’s recent appreciation. Speaking to Citi Business News monitored by Apexnewsgh, several dealers articulated their refusal to cut prices, indicating that any reductions would only become feasible once they could restock their shelves at the more favorable exchange rates. “For now, it can’t be possible because we ordered the goods at a certain rate which is higher than what we are seeing now. With that price, we have to sell,” explained Francis Appiagyei, a spare parts dealer in the area. “When the goods finish and we order again with a reduced exchange rate, then definitely the prices will come down.” Another dealer, Yaw Ansong, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the dire implications of premature price reductions. “Unless I sell the one I already ordered and finish, I can’t reduce the price of the goods. If I reduce the price now, I am going to lose my job,” he stated. Some dealers are open to price reductions in the future, but only if the cedi’s positive performance is sustained. “We have come to understand that the dollar is down and the cedi is also going up, so we are going to do what they say but not now. We will go down on prices when we see the dollar is still stable at where it is,” said Eric Osei Danso, another dealer. As the cedi fluctuates, the debate continues among Abossey Okai’s spare parts traders, highlighting the delicate balance between currency exchange rates and local pricing strategies. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Ayariga Condemns Gruesome Killing of NHIA Director
The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central and Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, has issued a strong condemnation of the brutal killing of Mohammed Seidu Akugri, the Bongo District Director of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). Apexnewsgh reports Describing the act as both “gruesome” and “dastardly,” Mr. Ayariga called attention to the shocking nature of the crime. Mr. Akugri reportedly lost his life after being shot and subsequently set ablaze in Nangodi, a community situated near Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region. The murder has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about security in the area. In a statement released on Tuesday, May 20, Mr. Ayariga extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, whom he referred to as a “comrade.” He emphasized the importance of a swift and thorough investigation by law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice. “I urge all to remain calm and let’s focus on the ongoing efforts of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to bring a lasting solution to the Bawku situation,” the statement read, urging unity in the face of tragedy. Additionally, Mr. Ayariga praised the youth of Bawku for their restraint during recent tensions and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace in the region. He emphasized that meaningful progress is being made toward restoring stability and cautioned that no individual or group should be allowed to derail the peace process that is so crucial for the community’s future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
We got few things, I apologise– Dr. Bawumia begs for forgiveness
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President and 2024 flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), acknowledged the shortcomings of the party’s administration while appealing for renewed trust from Ghanaians before the upcoming general elections. During the engagement, Dr. Bawumia reflected on the NPP’s governance, admitting that while the party has achieved significant milestones, it has also made notable mistakes. “The NPP did a lot of work, there’s no doubt about that,” he stated candidly. “But we did not get everything right. We got quite a few things wrong, and I think that, on my own behalf, on behalf of the party and the government, I apologise to all of you for us not getting the things right that we should have gotten.” His sincere acknowledgment of the party’s failures was paired with a commitment to learn from past errors. Dr. Bawumia reassured Ghanaians that the NPP has taken stock of its mistakes and is dedicated to improving if granted another opportunity to govern. “I believe that if by the grace of God, we have another opportunity, I believe that we will get many things right, because we have learnt the lessons of where we are going,” he added. Dr. Bawumia’s remarks come in the wake of the NPP’s disappointing performance in the recent elections, highlighting the urgency for the party to reconnect with voters and regain their trust as they head into the next electoral cycle. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East Region in Mourning After Gruesome Murder of Bongo NHIA Manager
The Upper East Region is engulfed in mourning and shock following the brutal murder of Mahamadu Seidu Akugri, the Bongo District Manager of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). Apexnewsgh reports His charred remains were discovered in a burned vehicle at Nangodi in the Nabdam District, sending shockwaves through the community. The horrific incident took place on the evening of Monday, May 19, between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. Mr. Akugri was reportedly ambushed by unknown assailants while returning home from Bolgatanga, the regional capital. Witnesses say he was shot before his attackers set his car ablaze, incinerating his body beyond recognition. The savage nature of this act has instilled fear and outrage among residents. In a powerful response to the tragedy, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central and Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga condemned the attack as “dastardly.” He extended his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family of the deceased. “I hereby condemn, in no uncertain terms, the shooting, killing, and burning of the body of Mahamadu Seidu Akugri… My heartfelt condolences to the family of my late comrade,” Ayariga stated. The MP further urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough and prompt investigation into the heinous crime and bring those responsible to justice. “I urge all to remain calm and focus on the ongoing efforts led by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to bring a lasting solution to the Bawku situation,” he added, referencing the broader security concerns impacting the region. As of now, police have not issued an official statement regarding the motives or suspects behind the killing. However, security has been intensified in the area, and investigations are reportedly underway. Mahamadu Seidu Akugri was a respected public servant known for his commitment to improving health insurance delivery in the Bongo District. His untimely death marks a devastating loss not just for his family and colleagues but for the NHIA and the wider community in the Upper East Region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minister for Communication Pledges to Lower Data Costs by End of 2025
At the recent World Telecommunications and Information Society Day event, Mr. Sam Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, addressed concerns about high data costs affecting Ghanaians. Apexnewsgh reports The minister’s remarks came in light of growing public pressure on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where users have been vocal about the need to eliminate tariffs that have reportedly inflated data prices by over 39%. “I’ve been trending over the weekend on X because people think data costs must be cheaper by just the stroke of my pen,” Mr. George remarked, acknowledging the frustration of many Ghanaians. He emphasized that while he sympathizes with these concerns, lowering data prices requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. The minister shared that he had established a committee to address the pricing issues, and he was proud to announce that they completed their work ahead of schedule. “I set up a committee whose mandate was to develop a roadmap that would lead to a drop in the prices of data. In just 13 days, they delivered that roadmap,” he revealed. Mr. George elaborated on the complexity of the situation, explaining that the data pricing challenges are rooted in eight years of market distortions. He cautioned against hasty decisions, stating, “I wish I could fix it arbitrarily, but it takes a carefully calculated effort.” Reassuring the public, the minister reaffirmed his commitment: “My promise was that by the end of this year, we will see prices drop—and my promise remains. Just trust the process.” As he continues to navigate this intricate issue, Mr. George’s dedication to affordable data pricing for all Ghanaians remains strong. Source: Apexnewsgh.com