In a striking revelation that has ignited discussions about corruption and the management of state assets, Martin Kpebu, a member of the John Mahama Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, has made serious allegations against former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. During an appearance on TV3’s The Key Point on January 18, 2025, Kpebu claimed that underground sources have indicated Dr. Bawumia’s involvement in the purchase of state lands, albeit not directly in his name, but ultimately benefitting him.
Kpebu, who is a private legal practitioner, asserted that a long list of former government officials, including Dr. Bawumia, had acquired state lands at significantly reduced prices prior to the elections. He expressed his concerns over what he termed “state capture,” alleging that these transactions reflect a troubling trend in governance where state resources are misappropriated for personal gain. “We are making efforts to retrieve all the documents,” Kpebu stated, underscoring the need for accountability in the management of public assets.
The allegations include claims that lands valued at $500,000 were sold for as little as $12,000 to various state officials. Kpebu’s assertions have raised alarms about the ethics of such transactions, suggesting a blatant disregard for the principles of transparency and fairness in public office.
In his discussion, Kpebu referenced a list compiled by Samuel Okuzeto Ablakwa, which reportedly names several former New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials implicated in similar land deals. Among those highlighted were notable figures such as Osei Nyarko and Henry Quartey. The lands in question, primarily located in the Cantonments area of Accra, were allegedly sold to government officials at a fraction of their market value. Kpebu pointed out the stark contrast in pricing, noting that while officials paid around GHC160,000 (approximately $12,000) for these parcels, a local vegetable farmers’ association was asked to pay the full market value of $500,000 for a comparable plot of land.
Kpebu’s claims point to a potentially systemic issue within the previous administration, where insiders allegedly exploited their positions to acquire valuable state resources at unreasonably low prices.
These allegations contribute to a growing narrative surrounding corruption and mismanagement of state assets during the tenure of the former administration. Critics argue that such practices not only undermine public trust but also hinder economic development by allowing a select few to benefit from state resources while the broader population suffers.
The gravity of Kpebu’s accusations has sparked widespread discussion among Ghanaians, with many calling for thorough investigations into the claims made against Dr. Bawumia and other officials mentioned. The implications of these allegations could have significant political consequences, especially as the country approaches upcoming elections and as calls for transparency and accountability gain momentum.
As the allegations against former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia unfold, they serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of integrity in public office. Martin Kpebu’s claims highlight a potential crisis of confidence in the governance of state resources, prompting urgent calls for scrutiny and reform. The situation continues to develop, and political observers are keenly watching how this controversy will influence public perception and the political landscape in Ghana moving forward.
