The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has categorically denied the sale or lease of certain state lands to cronies of the Akufo-Addo administration.
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa raised alarm about the sale of state lands, accusing the current government of selling lands belonging to institutions such as the Dubois Center at Cantonments, Park and Gardens at Cantonments and Wa, Judicial Service at Cantonments, and Prisons Service at Roman Ridge to its cronies.
However, a statement signed by the Minister, Mr Samuel Abu Jinapor on Tuesday described the claims as “false.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, the lease and/or sale of the land at Roman Ridge, allocated to the Prison Service, the subject matter of the Member of Parliament’s allegation, was made in the year 2005, and certainly not under the current administration,” it said.
This clarification emphasised that the transaction occurred long before the current government came into power, refuting claims of recent sales to cronies.
It addressed the status of the Dubois Centre land, stating, “The land occupied by the Dubois Centre was acquired in 1897 by a Certificate of Title, dated 20th December 1897 for Government purposes.
“The site is currently being occupied by the Dubois Centre, and the Lands Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has no pending application for the grant of this parcel of land to any third party,” it said.
By addressing these allegations, the Ministry aims to maintain transparency and public trust in its operations. It reiterated its commitment to safeguarding state lands and ensuring that all transactions adhere to legal and ethical standards.
It urged Ghanaians to verify information and disregard rumours that seek to undermine the credibility of the government and its institutions.
Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD
