Ablakwa blows alarm over last-minute GH¢12million contract, payment approved by ADB board
North Tongu MP Raises Alarm Over Controversial ADB Contract
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has alleged political interference in the approval of a $750,000 (GH¢12 million) electronic servicing agreement by the board of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB).
In a statement shared on December 26, 2024, Mr. Ablakwa criticized the hurried approval of the deal, which he claims bypassed crucial processes such as auditing and vendor negotiations. He further accused officials of succumbing to political pressure for full payment to Virtual Security Africa by December 27, 2024, despite the main agreement still being in draft form.
Midnight Contracts Under Scrutiny
The MP described the transaction as part of a broader pattern of “midnight contracts” and payments allegedly being rushed through by the outgoing Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government before leaving office on January 7, 2025.
Mr. Ablakwa warned public officials against yielding to such political demands, citing consequences under the incoming administration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama. He revealed that the NDC Transition Team has intercepted memos on similar last-minute deals and reiterated a warning issued to public servants to avoid engaging in questionable transactions.
NDC Concerned Over Last-Minute Government Actions
The NDC has raised broader concerns over late-stage actions by the outgoing government, including last-minute recruitments, promotions, and contract approvals. Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that these activities contradict the principles of responsible governance, calling on public servants to prioritize national interest over political pressure.
As the transition progresses, the NDC’s Transition Team has vowed to recover funds associated with any dubious transactions undertaken during this period.
Intercepted memos continue to expose reckless and unpatriotic officials of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government for awarding sleazy midnight contracts and insisting on full payments before January 7, 2025.
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) December 26, 2024
The Board of the Agricultural Department Bank (ADB) met 3 days ago and… pic.twitter.com/Ddo4fZ4zPv
