By King Amoah
In a shocking revelation, a significant number of employees within Ghana’s National Service Scheme (NSS) have raised alarms over an alleged misappropriation of funds totaling approximately Ghc 500 million.
Insiders within the organization have pointed fingers at high-ranking officials, including the Deputy Director, Gifty Oware Mensah, who is reportedly making preparations to flee the country amidst swirling allegations of her involvement in a payroll scheme that reportedly included ghost names.
Allegations of Misappropriation
According to whistleblowers within the NSS, the alleged financial misconduct has been facilitated through the insertion of fictitious names into the payroll system. These ghost names reportedly siphoned off substantial sums of money, raising questions about the efficacy of the NSS’s financial oversight and internal controls.
The revelations have sent shockwaves through the organization, with many employees expressing frustration and disappointment over the apparent misuse of public funds.
The enormity of the allegations has led to a sense of urgency among the workers, who are demanding immediate action to investigate and prosecute those involved. They have called for the arrest of top officials implicated in the scandal, particularly Gifty Oware Mensah, amid fears that she may evade accountability.
Insiders have revealed that Gifty Oware Mensah is allegedly making arrangements to leave the country, which has heightened concerns about her potential to escape the consequences of her alleged actions. In light of these developments, NSS employees are advocating for stringent measures to prevent any official from fleeing justice, arguing that accountability is crucial to restoring trust within the organization and among the public.
In a demonstration of solidarity, workers have expressed their willingness to support any efforts that lead to a thorough investigation of the alleged misappropriation. They are calling for the incoming government to prioritize this issue and take decisive action against any wrongdoers, emphasizing that transparency and accountability are vital for the integrity of the NSS.
Questioning the Efficacy of Digitization
The NSS has previously been touted as a model for financial digitization in Ghana, with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia highlighting the introduction of digital systems aimed at curbing fraud. Earlier this year, he claimed that digitization had led to the exposure of numerous ghost names within the Scheme, a move that was intended to enhance financial oversight.
However, the current allegations raise serious questions about the effectiveness of these measures.
Workers have expressed their dismay at the irony of a digitization initiative being undermined by fraudulent practices. They are questioning why, despite the technological advancements implemented to combat fraud, such significant amounts of money could still be misappropriated under the radar.
When this writer tried to reach the Chief Executive Officer of the NSS, Mr.Osei Assibey on his handy phone number 0244744955 for clarification, his line was out of coverage area.
Stay tuned for further update.
Attached picture; Osei Assibey CEO and Deputy Director Gifty Oware Mensah.
