Fuel Prices in Ghana Projected to Decline Further
Fuel prices in Ghana are expected to decline further in the first pricing window of June, driven by the continued strengthening of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar. Apexnewsgh reports The appreciation of the cedi has eased import costs for petroleum products, prompting optimism among market watchers that fuel prices at the pumps will reflect the currency gains in the coming days. Some Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) are already selling petrol and diesel slightly above GHS13 per litre, following consistent reductions over recent pricing windows. This downward trend is expected to continue, with consumers hoping to benefit from the reduced import costs. The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) recently announced a 15% reduction in transport fares, attributing the decision to the combined effect of falling fuel prices and the relative stability of the local currency. This fare cut is being seen as an early indication of the broader economic impact of the downward trend in petroleum prices. Energy analysts have noted that while pump prices were revised downward in the final pricing window of May, the reductions could have been steeper. They argue that OMCs should be more responsive in passing on the full benefits of reduced import costs to consumers. As the cedi continues to hold its gains, pressure is expected to mount on fuel retailers to make further price cuts, ensuring consumers feel the full impact of the currency’s strength. Industry players and consumers alike are now watching closely to see how the market responds during the first half of June, amid calls for greater transparency and fairness in petroleum pricing. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minister Buah Commends IGP and Police Service for Efforts Against Illegal Mining
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Armah Kofi Buah, has commended Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno and the Ghana Police Service for their significant role in the ongoing fight against illegal mining. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at the Global Mining Summit on Monday, June 2, 2025, the Minister acknowledged the contributions of the IGP, the Police Service, and other security agencies in combating illegal mining and protecting the country’s water bodies. “The IGP’s personal effort and role have been great so far, and the Police Service must be commended along with the other security agencies helping us to root out this canker,” the Minister said. Over the past two months, the Ghana Police Service has intensified operations against illegal mining, seizing over 100 excavators, bulldozers, weapons, and other exhibits in Samreboi and surrounding communities alone. Several suspects have been arrested and are currently undergoing legal processes. Similar operations have been conducted in parts of the Ashanti, Eastern, Western, Central, and Upper West Regions. The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the fight against illegal mining, working in collaboration with other stakeholders to protect water bodies and natural resources. The Minister’s commendation highlights the importance of collaboration between government agencies, security services, and other stakeholders in addressing the challenge of illegal mining. The Ghana Police Service’s efforts in this regard are seen as a crucial step towards protecting the country’s natural resources and promoting sustainable development. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
OSP Releases Docket to EOCO for Review
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has disclosed that the new leadership of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), under the leadership of Raymond Archer, has asked for the docket on the case involving the former Minister of Sanitation, Cecilia Dapaah. According to Mr. Agyebeng, the Office of the Special Prosecutor has subsequently released the docket to EOCO. The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) commenced investigation in July 2023 in respect of suspected corruption and corruption-related offences regarding large amounts of money and other valuable items involving Ms. Cecilia Abena Dapaah and her associates. After nearly seven months of extensive investigation, the OSP found no direct and immediate evidence of corruption but identified strong indications of suspected money laundering and structuring. In January 2024, the OSP referred the case to EOCO for commencement of investigation into the identified indications of suspected money laundering and structuring. However, EOCO returned the entire docket back to the OSP in May 2024, citing that they did not have a mandate to commence investigations into the matter since it could not premise its investigation on any predicate offence. The new leadership of EOCO has now requested the OSP to forward the docket back to EOCO for a review and commencement of investigation. The OSP has complied with the request and released the docket to EOCO. Mr. Agyebeng stated that the OSP would lend its full collaborative support to EOCO in its review and investigation and probable further action. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GRNMA Calls on Members to Withdraw Emergency Services
The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has called on its members to withdraw all emergency services as part of its ongoing strike action. In addition, GRNMA has also withdrawn Out-Patient Department Services and outlined a roadmap for its industrial action. The GRNMA has outlined the following roadmap for its planned industrial actions: June 2-3, 2025: Nurses and midwives will wear red armbands and headbands in protest. June 4-8, 2025: Withdrawal of outpatient department (OPD) services. From June 9, 2025: Total withdrawal of all nursing and midwifery services nationwide. The Association has called on all nurses and midwives to remain “focused, resolute and unperturbed” and to participate fully in the industrial action. GRNMA President, Perpetual Ofori Ofori Ampofo, has urged members to follow the roadmap of actions diligently. The Ministry of Health had appealed to the Association to rescind its decision to proceed with the industrial action and directed all heads of units to ensure continuous healthcare services. However, GRNMA has stated that members will not be intimidated by “divisive and false narratives” and has called on the Health Ministry to channel its energies towards getting approval of the Collective Agreement from the Ministry of Finance and implementing same. The Association has called on Parliament to intervene in the matter to prevent a total shutdown of nursing and midwifery services by June 9, 2025. GRNMA has expressed gratitude to the nursing and midwifery fraternity for their solidarity and urged members to remain vigilant, united, and steadfast in their fight for the approval and implementation of their Collective Agreement. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
GIS Warns Public Against Fraudulent Recruitment Scheme
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has issued a strong warning to the general public against falling victim to a fraudulent recruitment scheme circulating online, particularly via the website (link unavailable), which falsely claims to be running a protocol recruitment exercise on behalf of the Service. In an official press release, GIS management categorically disassociated the Service from the false claims. The GIS emphasized that it has not authorized any individual, group, or third-party platform to conduct recruitment or sell protocol forms. “No official clearance has been given by the Government for any recruitment exercise at this time,” the statement read. “When recruitment is duly authorized, it will be advertised through appropriate and credible channels, including national newspapers and our official platforms.” The GIS further assured the public that its Intelligence Section, in collaboration with other state security agencies, is actively investigating the fraudulent portal and working to identify and prosecute those behind the scam. The GIS cautioned the public to be vigilant and report any solicitation or communication from (link unavailable) or similar unofficial sources. “Anyone who engages with such fraudulent entities does so at their own risk,” the statement warned. Members of the public are encouraged to contact the GIS Public Affairs Department directly for verification of any recruitment-related information. The GIS provided the following contact details for verification: info@immigration.gov.gh or 0555027024. The public is urged to exercise caution and verify any recruitment information through official channels to avoid falling prey to scams. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tampuli Urges OSP to Consider Virtual Session for Ofori-Atta
Member of Parliament for Gushegu, Hassan Tampuli, has called on the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to consider and accept a request from former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, for a virtual session in response to ongoing investigations. Mr. Tampuli’s comments come in the wake of the OSP’s announcement that it would initiate processes for an INTERPOL red notice against Mr. Ofori-Atta after he failed to honour repeated invitations for questioning. Speaking to the media, Hassan Tampuli argued that in an era of digital advancement, the OSP should make use of available technologies to facilitate engagement. “What is important for me is that there are other options available for Ken Ofori-Atta to engage the OSP,” he said. “I think the OSP should take advantage of this medium. In this era of digitisation, we should be able to see some amount of change. The OSP should take advantage of this digital platform and engage him.” Mr. Ofori-Atta had cited medical complications in requesting a virtual session. However, the OSP has insisted that no medical report has been submitted to justify his absence, leading to what it describes as an act of bad faith. The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, revealed the decision to initiate processes for an INTERPOL red notice during a press conference in Accra on Monday, June 2, citing the former minister’s non-compliance. The OSP’s decision has sparked a debate about the use of technology in investigations and the balance between cooperation and enforcement. Mr. Tampuli’s suggestion highlights the need for flexibility and adaptability in modern investigations. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the OSP will reconsider its stance and engage with Mr. Ofori-Atta through virtual means. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Acheampong Explains Decision to Stand Surety for Chairman Wontumi
Former Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has explained his decision to stand as surety for Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi. Apexnewsgh reports Dr. Acheampong submitted documents to support the bail requirements, helping secure Wontumi’s release from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on Monday, June 2, 2025. Speaking to journalists shortly after the release, Dr. Acheampong said his action was driven by a sense of solidarity and responsibility towards a party member in distress. “It serves us no good. What is important is that one of us was in trouble. He was arrested, and we needed, as part of the legal process, to provide surety for bail, which has been done. He has been released, and now we wait for the next steps,” he said. Chairman Wontumi had been in EOCO custody since May 27, under investigation for alleged offences including fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state. His release followed the fulfilment of a GH¢50 million bail condition, which required two justified sureties. Although his legal team reportedly met the bail conditions by May 30, his release was delayed due to a pending High Court motion seeking a review of the terms. That motion was withdrawn on June 2, clearing the path for his release. Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem-Sai had earlier indicated that investigations could potentially link Wontumi to a broader international organised crime network. Chairman Wontumi is expected to cooperate fully with authorities as investigations continue. Dr. Acheampong’s decision to stand surety for Wontumi has sparked interest, and many are watching to see how the situation unfolds. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
June 3 Disaster: A Decade of Sorrow and Unresolved Issues
Today marks the 10th anniversary of the devastating flood and fire disaster that struck the heart of Accra, claiming 154 lives and leaving the nation in shock. Apexnewsgh reports On that fateful night of June 3, 2015, torrential rains pounded the capital, and an explosion at the GOIL filling station near Kwame Nkrumah Circle turned a dire flood emergency into a national tragedy. Hundreds of individuals, caught in the downpour and rising floodwaters, had sought shelter at the fuel station. But as water levels surged, fuel leaked from the station and floated across the surface. In a flash, a spark triggered a massive explosion, engulfing the area in flames. The aftermath was grim, with bodies scattered across the streets and some found days later in open drains. A government-appointed committee launched an investigation into the cause of the fire and outlined a chain of events that led to the explosion. The report identified the flooding of Kwame Nkrumah as the remote cause, the overflow of fuel from the GOIL station as the intermediate cause, and the act of an individual, Seth Kwesi Ofosu, who reportedly dropped a lit cigarette into the floodwaters laced with fuel, as the final spark. While some remedial efforts have been undertaken over the years, many believe that the deeper structural issues contributing to the disaster remain unresolved. Poor urban drainage, inadequate waste management, and unregulated construction continue to pose risks in the city. As the nation reflects on the 10th anniversary of the June 3 disaster, survivors, victims’ families, and civil society groups are once again calling for accountability and sustained action to ensure such a tragedy never happens again. The June 3 disaster serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the underlying causes of such tragedies. The government and relevant stakeholders must take concrete steps to prevent similar disasters in the future. The nation must come together to demand accountability and action, ensuring that the lives lost were not in vain. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Chairman Wontumi Released, But Will Still Return to EOCO
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been released from the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) after meeting his bail conditions. Wontumi was granted bail in the sum of GHS 50 million and fulfilled the conditions around 8:00 p.m. on Monday, June 2. According to his lawyer, Mr. Andy Appiah-Kubi, Wontumi is expected to return to EOCO for further questioning on Wednesday, June 4, and again on Monday, June 9, 2025, as investigations continue. Appiah-Kubi expressed appreciation to EOCO officials for extending their working hours to facilitate Wontumi’s release after the bail conditions were satisfied on Monday evening. The lawmaker thanked the Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Bryan Acheampong, and the MP for New Edubease, George Boahen Oduro, for their critical support in meeting the bail requirements. Mr. Acheampong’s property alone exceeded the value required for the surety, making it possible for Wontumi to secure his release. Appiah-Kubi revealed that attempts by others to stand surety, including businessman and politician Kennedy Agyapong and an unnamed individual from Somanya, were unsuccessful due to issues with property documentation. The lawyer also disclosed that Wontumi is currently in frail health and intends to formally request permission from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to seek medical attention. Wontumi had missed a scheduled meeting with the CID last Thursday due to his detention by EOCO. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Minister Slams NPP Lawyer Over Wontumi’s Bail
The Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has taken a swipe at New Patriotic Party (NPP) lawyer Gary Nimako Marfo, accusing him of lacking leadership and a coherent legal strategy in securing bail for the party’s embattled Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi. In a post on his official Facebook page, Dr. Boamah questioned Mr. Nimako Marfo’s competence and described his approach to the matter as chaotic and ineffective. “This chaotic display of leadership, even in opposition, is a reflection of a deeper crisis within the NPP’s ranks,” the Minister wrote. “One would have expected a more coordinated legal effort from someone of Gary Nimako Marfo’s stature.” Chairman Wontumi has been granted bail by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and is currently facing ongoing investigations. Attempts by the NPP legal team to secure his release on bail earlier were unsuccessful, leading to chaos in the party’s leadership. Dr. Boamah’s criticism of Mr. Nimako Marfo’s handling of the case has sparked a reaction, with many wondering if the Minister’s comments will have any impact on the NPP’s legal strategy. The Minister’s comments underscore the ongoing tensions between the NDC and NPP, with both parties engaging in a war of words over various issues. Source: Apexnewsgh.com