Who Has the Best Online Brand? Hajia Bintu vs Fella Makafui
News Hub Creator54min
Hajia Bintu and Fella Makafui are influential figures in Ghana’s social media landscape. They have both gained large followings through their online presence. The question remains: who has the better online brand?
Hajia Bintu has become popular for her lively content on Instagram and TikTok. She is known for her curvy body and stylish outfits. Hajia engages with her followers by sharing dance videos, fashion advice, and personal moments, creating a close bond with her audience. Her work promotes body positivity, encouraging women to confidently embrace their curves.
Fella Makafui showcases a refined and aspirational image through her social media. She portrays sophistication and luxury with professional photos, brand collaborations, and insights into her glamorous lifestyle. Her audience is attracted to this polished image, which she uses to promote her business ventures and high-end brand partnerships.
Hajia Bintu’s brand is seen as authentic and friendly, while Fella presents a more glamorous and business-oriented image. Both women have effectively used their social media influence to create opportunities in fashion, business, and lifestyle, but they do it in different styles.
Which influencer’s online brand do you like more? Do you enjoy Hajia Bintu’s fun and relatable style, or are you attracted to Fella Makafui’s elegant, luxury-focused image? Share your opinions in the comments to start the discussion!
The Minister for the Interior on the advice of the North East Regional Security Council and by Executive Instrument, has imposed curfew on Walewale and its environs in the North East Region from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am, effective Saturday, February 15, 2025.
A statement signed by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, called on the chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, youth and people of the area to exercise restraint in the face of the challenges confronting them, as well as to use non-violent means to channel their energies into ensuring peace.
However, there is a total ban on all persons in Walewale and its environs from carrying arms, ammunition or any offensive weapons, and persons found with any arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted.
This curfew has been imposed due to the recent suspected gun attack by unknown assailants along the Walewale-Bolgatanga Highway.
In the past two weeks, reports indicate that about seven persons have lost their lives due to gun attacks, with at least two buses completely burnt into ashes.
Meanwhile, some persons have attributed the recent attacks to the ongoing conflict in Bawku.
A Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday, February 17, 2025, ruled that the arrest warrant issued against Ezekiel Onyedikachi, the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, remains in effect.
Justice Alexander Owoeye made the pronouncement while adjourning the criminal charges against Onyedikachi, who is accused of fraudulently diverting $345,000 in royalties meant for Chinwo.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had secured an arrest warrant for Onyedikachi on January 16 after he failed to
A fun-filled afternoon turned tragic at Bibiani Zongo in the Western North Region after a Senior High School (SHS) 2 student drowned in the Amponsah Dam.
The victim has been identified as 19-year-old Elisha Akanlawen, who went swimming with some mates.
Speaking to Adom News, the Assembly Member for the Zongo Electoral Area, Mohammed Abdallah, recounted the heartbreaking moment he arrived at the scene.
According to eyewitnesses, Elisha, who was inexperienced in swimming, attempted to join his friends in the deep waters but was quickly overwhelmed.
Efforts to rescue him were futile.
The police and community leaders were immediately called to the scene to perform the necessary traditional rituals to retrieve the body.
The victim’s body was later transported to the Bibiani Government Hospital mortuary for preservation and further investigations.
Mr. Abdallah revealed that this is not the first time the community has experienced such a tragedy at the Amponsah Dam. He advocated for a fence to secure the dam, noting that efforts to get the authorities’ attention to address the issue have yielded no results.
Mr. Abdallah appealed for help to prevent further tragedies.
Accra, Feb. 17, GNA – Civil Society Organizations in education have called for enhanced funding as part of reforms to the Students Loan Scheme (SLS).
They argued that increased funding would improve disbursement and position the Scheme to offer pre-admission loans among others.
The stakeholders, made the call at a thematic forum on education in Accra as a preparatory step towards the Government’s planned National Summit on Transforming Ghana’s Education System.
Organized by STAR-Ghana Foundation under its Inclusive Election and Accountability in Ghana Project (Phase III), the Thematic Forum on Education, focused on strengthening civil society’s role in monitoring education policies and reforms.
It also focused on leveraging evidence-based advocacy to improve education service delivery while enhancing partnerships for effective policy implementation.
The day’s forum brought together stakeholders in the education sector to discuss strategies for monitoring government’s commitments and drive accountability in education service delivery.
STAR-Ghana has already held similar engagements in Northern Ghana, bringing together civil society partners to discuss priority areas in basic, secondary, and tertiary education.
The Foundation, along with other advocacy groups such as Eduwatch, has identified major bottlenecks in the sector, including challenges with the Free Senior High School policy.
The Students Loan Scheme, designed to assist needy students finance their tertiary education, lacks adequate fund allocation and disbursement.
The CSOs said the challenge of funding had neutralized the impact of the guarantor-free system introduced by the previous NPP Government.
Against a commitment of GH₵ 160 million, and a fund availability of GH₵ 53 million, the Students Loan Scheme was only able to disburse half of its 2022/2023 commitments.
The stakeholders further stated that there was also a cohort of needy tertiary candidates who were unable to honour their admissions due to financial challenges.
According to the Africa Education Watch, in the 2020/2021 academic year, out of 190,395 public tertiary applications for bachelor’s degree programmes, 61 per cent representing 118,000 were admitted, with only 74,970 representing 39 per cent honouring their admissions.
The CSOs indicated that the students loan scheme trust fund heavily relied on its 65 per cent recovery rate to run with GH₵ 5 million annually from the Communication Service Tax and a maximum of 10 per cent from GETFUND as required by law.
They further suggested that if the allocation to the scheme was not increase consistent with the demands and reengineer its financing to make it available at the beginning of the academic year, it would be difficult to increase the proportion of senior high school graduates who approach tertiary.
Raymond Danso, Portfolio Manager, Right to Services, STAR-Ghana Foundation emphasized the need for a unified civil society approach in addressing challenges in Ghana’s education sector ahead of the upcoming National Education Forum to be organized by the Government.
“This forum gives us the opportunity to prioritize the key issues we need to present at the National Education Forum, including past challenges, previously proposed solutions that did not work, and new alternatives,” he stated.
Mr Danso further expressed optimism about the Government’s willingness to engage with CSOs and the public in shaping educational policies, and that discussions from the CSOs forum around critical areas such as education financing, infrastructure development, and teacher deployment, should be at the centre of discussions at the national forum.
A key outcome of the CSOs forum, he added, would be the introduction of a tracking tool that would monitor the Government’s commitments to the education sector, particularly in relation to manifesto promises.
“Previous efforts by individual CSOs have been fragmented, making accountability and reform efforts difficult. This tool will ensure a coordinated approach in monitoring progress,” he added. Mr Danso stressed that both duty-bearers and citizens had roles to play in ensuring quality education service delivery.
While expressing optimism about the forthcoming National Education Forum, he urged stakeholders to ensure that recommendations from such dialogues lead to actionable outcomes rather than being shelved.
“We cannot continue to expect new results if we don’t take the right decisions and commit to practical solutions,” Mr Danso emphasized.
Kumawood actress Christiana Awuni has shared the harrowing experience she endured during her marriage.
In a conversation with Empress Gifty on UTV on February 16, 2025, she explained that the trauma she went through has left a lasting scar, making her lose interest in men whenever marriage is mentioned.
“Due to what I went through in marriage and relationships, I no longer have feelings for men. I can be good friends with a man for many years, but as soon as he proposes to me, I stop talking to him. The trauma from my marriage has left a scar on me, so whenever someone proposes, I get scared,” she stated
She also disclosed that she was physically abused and deprived of proper meals
She said her poor diet during the marriage led to developing an ulcer.
“I even got an ulcer because I was poorly fed. The man I married had money and was also rich, but he stopped providing for my children and me immediately after we got married,” she stated.
Due to her past experiences, Awuni expressed that she no longer believes in giving love another chance.
“I don’t think I would ever get married or go into another relationship. I don’t want to give love another chance because of what I went through,” she added.
The late Victor Selorney was a former Deputy Minister of Finance
The name Victor Selormey has resurfaced amidst discussions around the declaration of former Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, as a wanted fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
Born Victor Lawrence Kwashie Selormey, the economist who served as Deputy Minister of Finance under Jerry John Rawlings’s government, was convicted by a court on charges related to financial impropriety.
He was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment in 2001 for defrauding by false pretenses and causing financial loss to the state.
To some advocates of accountability, the case of Victor Selormey underscores the duty of public officers to manage public resources judiciously.
For others, including his family, his case represents pure political persecution, which ultimately cost him his life.
In a recent Facebook post, a relative of the late former Deputy Minister of Finance, Francis Yao Selormey, recounted how his relative willingly returned to Ghana to defend himself while under investigation for corruption while receiving medical treatment abroad.
According to Francis, upon arriving in Ghana, his relative was arrested at Kotoka International Airport in a manner reminiscent of an American movie.
“When the late Victor Selormey was accused of corruption while seeking medical attention abroad, he willingly returned to defend himself. He was arrested at the airport in a ‘Rambo’ style, detained, and eventually jailed, all for political vindictiveness,” he wrote.
As widely reported, Francis Selormey affirmed that his relative, who was battling cardiac issues and had a pacemaker, was incarcerated at Nsawam Prison and was only taken to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital for medical treatment when his condition deteriorated, despite his family’s continuous pleas for him to receive treatment abroad.
“This was a man who had a pacemaker and was suffering from cardiac issues. He was held in Nsawam with an oxygen tank. His family pleaded for him to receive medical attention abroad. It was only when his condition worsened that he was rushed to Korle Bu, where he later died. The family, including myself, endured a lot of stigmatization during this period,” Francis added.
The prosecution of the late former deputy minister centered around the sale of 60% of GNPC’s 40% shareholding in LEEBDA Corporation to an American company, Amromco Energy LLC, for $20 million in 1998.
The core of the allegations was that LEEBDA Corporation did not exist at the time of the supposed sale, and thus, no shares could legally be sold.
The prosecution argued that Selormey and others conspired to defraud the state by selling shares of a non-existent company, claiming that no such company was registered in Delaware, USA, where LEEBDA was supposedly incorporated.
The defense contended that LEEBDA did exist but had been dissolved before the transaction was completed. They argued that Selormey was unaware of LEEBDA’s dissolution at the time of the deal. Furthermore, they claimed that crucial evidence was withheld by the prosecution, which would have shown that LEEBDA indeed existed at one point.
The trial and conviction of Victor Selormey remain controversial due to claims that the prosecution withheld evidence like documents from Delaware confirming LEEBDA’s existence, potentially exonerating Selormey or at least providing a different perspective on his actions.
Francis Yao Selormey’s post comes after the OSP declared former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, a wanted fugitive in connection with four high-profile corruption investigations.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stated that Ofori-Atta, who is reported to be receiving medical treatment in America, must return to Ghana immediately to face questioning, warning that failure to comply would lead to steps to compel his return.
The Minority Leader of Parliament, Afenyo-Markin, commented that Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, willing to return at an appropriate time, has been left traumatized by the OSP’s declaration.
However, according to Francis Selormey, Mr. Ofori-Atta could return and defend himself while receiving medical attention in Ghana.
“Today, Ken Ofori-Atta is said to be traumatized and seeking medical attention so can’t avail himself. Well, thankfully UGMC and Agenda 111 can manage his health while he proves himself innocent,” he added.
GA/KE
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV here:
Nana Kwasi Boatey is the acting CEO of Ghana Publishing Company Limited
President John Mahama has appointed private legal practitioner and law lecturer Nana Kwasi Boatey as the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Publishing Company Limited.
Boatey’s appointment follows the termination of the appointment of former CEO David Asante, who served for eight years. Nana Kwasi Boatey is expected to bring his vast experience in law, media, and other managerial positions to bear on his new role.
Nana Kwasi Boatey was called to the Ghana Bar in 2011.
He attended the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, where he obtained his LLB (Law) from 2005 to 2008.
He completed Kumasi Technical University in 2001, earning a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Dispensing Technology. He is a former student of Prempeh College, Kumasi.
He is also the CEO of Orbitplus Pharmacy Ltd.
Boatey lectures on civil procedure at the Ghana School of Law in Kumasi. He also serves as the Head of Chambers at the law firm Dadson and Associates Ltd.
Nana Kwasi Boatey once served as Parliamentary Liaison and assistant to the then Minister for Trade and Industry, Hannah Tetteh, between May 2009 and November 2011.
He has also served as the Board Secretary of the Ghana Standards Authority and has worked in the media as a host of radio programs, including Decision 2020 on Kumasi-based Luv FM and Action Point on Kapital Radio.
Ghana Publishing Company (formerly called Ghana Publishing Corporation) was incorporated on March 9, 1965, under Legislative Instrument No. 413 and subsequently amended by L.I. 672 on December 11, 1970, to take over the functions of the former Government Printing Department and the administration of the Government Free Textbook Schemes.
The Assembly Press was converted into a Limited Liability Company under the Statutory Corporations (Conversion to Companies) Act 461, 1993, and re-named Ghana Publishing Company Limited in 2007.
According to information on the company’s website, it exists “primarily to print and publish very high-quality books and stationery for educational institutions, government departments, and the general public at competitive prices.”
“We aim at nothing but the best in all our services. As a printing and publishing company, our values drive us to offer world-class services to our clients and the general public.”
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV here:
Black Stars striker Felix Afena-Gyan scored his 5th goal of the season in Juventus Next Gen’s stalemate against Potenza on February 16, 2025.
Afena-Gyan rescued a point for Juventus in the dying embers of the game that ended one-all.
The Ghanaian forward put his team levelled in the match with a stunning finish from just inside the box after receiving a cut back pass from the right.
He is currently the third highest scorer for his side, trailing leader Simone Guerra with three goals.
Afena-Gyan’s impressive form signals a resurgence after a difficult two-year spell at Cremonese following his breakthrough at AS Roma in 2022.
Watch Afena-Gyan’s brilliant goal against Potenza:
🚨🇬🇭 Felix Afena-Gyan scores his fifth goal of the season for Juventus B team in the Serie C. pic.twitter.com/7P1a3MvefF
Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, John Dumelo
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The founder and leader of the International God’s Way Church, Bishop Daniel Obinim, has questioned President John Dramani Mahama for appointing the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, John Dumelo, as the Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture.
According to Bishop Obinim, it is not yet time for John Dumelo to merit such a ministerial position.
“Opportunity comes but once. Let me use John Dumelo as an example. Since when did he become an MP for him to receive a ministerial appointment?” he questioned.
He asserted that Mahama’s decision to appoint Dumelo and others is a way of rewarding everyone who contributed to his victory in the 2024 general elections.
Speaking to his church members in a video shared on YouTube, Bishop Obinim stated, “Mahama has made up his mind that during his four-year tenure in office, he wants everyone who helped him win the election to enjoy the benefits with him.
“John hasn’t reached the level of becoming a minister. John, who is an actor. He has come to my house at Ashaley Botwe about five times.
“He even came to my house to act in a movie with Christabel and David Osei. Now, he is an Honourable Member. Indeed, time changes. My brother John, I salute you.”
The lead Convener of the FixTheCountry and Democracy Hub, Oliver Barker-Vormawor has revealed the former Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, Andy Appiah-Kubi was poisoned by his own government.
According to Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Andy Appiah-Kubi had to seek protection from the U.S. embassy.
He asserted that the former NPP MP foresaw the risk of a landslide loss for the NPP and dared to demand Ken Ofori-Atta’s removal.
Pictures of Ankara short gowns for young and fashionable mothers
News Hub Creator14h
Ankara short gowns are a go-to choice for stylish and trendy mothers who value both fashion and comfort. These gowns effortlessly combine cultural heritage with contemporary designs, making them suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to family gatherings and everyday errands.
One timeless design to consider is the wrap-style Ankara gown. This piece complements all body types and is especially convenient for nursing mothers, offering both elegance and functionality. It allows for easy breastfeeding access while maintaining a polished appearance. Depending on the occasion, you can style it with sneakers for a relaxed look or elevate it with heels for a more refined touch.
Another eye-catching option is the flare sleeve gown. Featuring dramatic sleeves, this design adds a touch of sophistication and makes a bold fashion statement. When crafted in vibrant Ankara prints, it enhances the overall appeal and exudes confidence.
These Ankara short gown styles strike the perfect balance between tradition and modern fashion, ensuring that mothers can stay effortlessly chic while going about their daily activities.
Amidst opposition to the President’s appointment of Engineer Dr Robert Lartey as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company, the Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira Constituency NDC Executives have publicly declared their support for his appointment.
Addressing the media at a press conference in Axim on Monday, February 17, the constituency’s Secretary, Gideon Ansah-Mensah, emphasized that they consider Dr. Lartey a suitable choice for the position.
He highlighted Dr Lartey’s long-standing service with Ghana Gas since its inception, stating that his experience and expertise make him the right candidate to lead the company.
Following extensive consultations, the Executives revealed that they strongly believe that Engineer Lartey is the most qualified and deserving candidate for the role and have pledged their full support for his appointment.
According to them, His years of dedicated service have given him an in-depth understanding of the company’s operations, challenges, and opportunities. With his leadership, they are confident that he will build upon the foundation he has helped establish, driving the company to greater success.
“We the constituency executives for the National Democratic Congress in the Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira Constituency hereby announce our full and unwavering support for the appointment of Engineer Robert Lartey as the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company. After careful consultation, we are confident that Engineer Lartey is the most qualified and most deserving for this role, and we wholeheartedly endorse his appointment.”
“His long-standing service reflects his deep understanding of the company’s operations, challenges, and opportunities. We are confident that his leadership will build on the foundation he has helped establish, driving the company to greater heights.”
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Popular Nollywood actress, Regina Daniels, has deactivated her Instagram account following rumours that her billionaire husband, Ned Nwoko, has welcomed a child with fellow actress, Chika Ike.
A check on Monday confirmed that Regina’s Instagram page is no longer active. This move has fueled speculation about turmoil in her marriage.
According to GhanaWeb, Rev. Isaac Owusu-Bempah, the founder and leader of Glorious Word Power Ministries International, has urged Ghanaians to consider ways to prolong President John Dramani Mahama’s time in office beyond the constitutional limits.
He believes that the current administration, led by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), should be allowed to govern for a longer duration, citing their dedication to the nation’s progress and welfare.
During a sermon on February 16, 2025, Owusu-Bempah encouraged citizens to abstain from participating in the upcoming 2028 elections, advocating instead for Mahama to continue his leadership.
He proposed that if Mahama opts not to seek re-election, he should have the power to appoint a successor to lead the country.
He emphasized his views on Mahama, expressing admiration for his character. Owusu-Bempah stated that the president possesses a good heart and is genuinely a good person.
He expressed a desire for Mahama to extend his presidency beyond the typical four-year term.
Alternatively, if Mahama chooses not to run again, he should be permitted to select a successor without the necessity of elections.
“I wish that after his four years, he could add more years to his rule. Or, if he does not want to continue, he should be allowed to choose someone to lead the country without elections,” he stated.
Owusu-Bempah further remarked that the opposition party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), should remain in that role for an extended period.
He reiterated his stance that Ghanaians should collectively decide against voting during the next election, allowing the NDC to continue governing.
A TRANSIT Ford with registration number AW 3831-21 travelling from Sunyani direction with passengers aboard heading to Kumasi has crashed two people on a motorbike to death at Fowoman in the Ahafo Ano South East District of the Ashanti Region.
The passenger on the motorbike, whose name was given as Owusu Amponsah, a footballer aged 20, died on the spot, while the motorbike rider, known as Boateng, who is in his 20s, died later at the Emergency Unit of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), after he had been transferred from the Mankranso Government Hospital.
The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the morgue for autopsy and preservation.
However, occupants of the Ford vehicle were unhurt in the accident that occurred on Friday, February 14, 2025, at about 11:30pm.
According to an eyewitness, the driver of the speeding Transit Ford crashed their motorbike from behind.
The unfortunate accident occurred as the two friends were coming from Kwamekyeikrom where they were having a Valentine party, to buy food from Fawoman when the incident happened.
“The driver of the vehicle failed to stop after hitting the two and sped off. He was given a hot chase by a taxi driver and motorcyclists who were at the scene. Sensing that they were getting close to him and fearing for his life, he stopped his vehicle and fled to the bush,” the eyewitness narrated.
Towing vehicle driver, mate nearly lynched
A driver and mate of a towing vehicle were nearly lynched by some angry residents from Fawoman the following day, February 15, after they had come to the accident scene to tow the Ford vehicle away. The swift intervention of the police at Mankranso, who were on patrol in the area, saved the two.
The police has since impounded the Transit Ford vehicle to the Mankranso Police station, while the driver of the Ford vehicle is being pursued for interrogation.
President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his government’s commitment to stabilizing Ghana’s economy as the foundation for sustainable development.
Speaking at the Africa Business Forum 2025 on Monday, February 17, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mahama outlined strategic efforts to address key economic challenges, including cedi depreciation, high inflation, soaring interest rates, and a growing debt burden.
The forum, organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, was themed: “Moving from Potential to Prosperity: Activating Africa’s Regional Value Chain.”
Mahama stressed the need to analyze the root causes of Ghana’s economic crisis while implementing decisive measures, including a comprehensive debt management plan.
“In a crisis, the first thing you do is focus on stabilizing, and that is what we are focused on—bringing interest rates and inflation down, stabilizing the currency, and dealing with the debt overhang. That is where our focus is for now,” he stated.
He further emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying causes to prevent a recurrence.
“At the same time, we must analyze the factors that brought Ghana to this point and implement steps to ensure we do not end up in this situation again. That will entail strengthening the Fiscal Responsibility Act and the Public Financial Management Act.
“We need to cut out waste and reduce corruption. These are some of the critical issues that must be addressed,” he assured.
Founder and President of Angel Broadcasting Network, Dr. Kwaku Oteng
Founder and President of Angel Broadcasting Network, Dr. Kwaku Oteng, has recounted his experience of being ridiculed by some ladies when he was young and struggling.
In a conversation on Angel FM, shared on social media on February 17, 2025, Kwaku Oteng disclosed that ladies used to mock him for selling medicine and carrying it on his head.
He explained that the ladies did not understand the vision behind his hustle or the money he was earning from the business.
“I remember when I used to live at Breman West. I used to sell medicine on my head, and anytime I went around selling the medicine, there were these ladies in my enclave who would tease me, saying that if I wanted to work, I should go and look for a better job,” he said.
Kwaku Oteng emphasised that he wasn’t discouraged by the constant mockery because he was earning money from his business.
“One of them came to me one time and told me about how they used to laugh at me. But I wasn’t bothered because I knew the money I was making from the business,” he added.
Yakubu Tahidu, a staff member of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), has been charged by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for offenses related to payroll fraud and corruption.
Five other individuals have also been charged for their involvement and the roles they played in committing the corruption-related offenses.
According to the OSP on X on Monday, February 17, 2025, the accused individuals; Yakubu Tahidu, Abdulai Abukari Sadic, Sammy Suuk, Mohammed Yusif Jay, Stafford Korletey Azudey-Barres, and Osman Issahaku are facing 17 counts of corruption, accused of causing financial loss to the state.
Providing details of the charges against the suspects, the OSP stated that Yakubu Tahidu, the primary suspect and a former teacher at Balogu M/A JHS in Tamale, Northern Region, continued to receive salaries as a teacher even after leaving the position and securing employment with MASLOC.
“Yakubu Tahidu, formerly a teacher at Balogu M/A JHS, is accused of illegally receiving salaries after vacating his post to join the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC),” the OSP wrote.
The OSP further added that the five other accused individuals failed to prevent the fraudulent activity or, in some cases, facilitated and assisted Yakubu in perpetrating the crime.
Mohammed Yusif Jay, the former headteacher of Balogu M/A JHS, is said to have validated Yakubu’s salaries despite his reassignment to another school.
Meanwhile, Osman Issahaku, the current headteacher of Balogu M/A JHS, is accused of assisting in the processing of the illegal payments.
The OSP further stated that the case was referred to its office by National Security, and the accused individuals have since been brought before a High Court in Tamale for prosecution.
MAG/MA
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Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom is the owner of Elmina Sharks FC
The owner of Elmina Sharks FC, Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, has blamed the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for the chaotic incident that occurred between his team and Swedru All Blacks in the Division One League on February 16, 2025.
According to him, the GFA are responsible for putting in place stringent safety measures to prevent violent incidents, including attacks on referees by fans and team officials.
The business mogul rejected claims that the people of Elmina are hooligans, stating that the public did not see the full video to understand what actually transpired.
“Some people take certain portions of a video and say the fans in Elmina are hooligans when they don’t understand what happened. Don’t take a clip and say, ‘Shouldn’t someone take responsibility?’ It is the GFA.
“They must ensure everyone’s safety. They must make games entertaining, pay referees appropriately, and compensate everyone fairly, rather than just taking FIFA money and doing nothing,” he said during an interview with GTV Sports+.
Dr. Nduom indicated that the chaotic incident has made him consider whether his team will continue participating in the Division One League.
“I’m considering whether to continue having this team as part of the league. It’s not worth it. I don’t do it for personal gain; we do it for the opportunities,” he added.
His comments come after a report indicated that the mayhem arose when the referee awarded a penalty to Swedru All Blacks in the 12th minute.
Supporters and players of Elmina Sharks reacted violently, with officials and players invading the pitch. Blows were exchanged in the ensuing melee, leading to a halt of over 27 minutes.
The GFA reacted by charging Jay Asamoah Kola, a player of Elmina Sharks, for the assault. The player has until Tuesday, February 18, 2025, to officially respond to the charges.
Meanwhile watch this explainer on the dismissal of the No. 12 corruption case after Anas refused to testify without mask
Gospel singer, Florence Obinim has been advised to shut up and stop responding to rumors alleging her husband has secretly married actress, Benedicta Gafah, as his second wife.
According to netizens, Florence’s reply to the allegation lends it more credence and sows doubts in the minds of people that there must be a grain of truth to it which is why she’s come out to debunk it. After all, as the saying goes, there is no smoke without fire!
Recall that over the weekend, a social media creator caused a stir after alleging that Benedicta Gafah is Obinim’s second wife.
According to the lady, Obinim and Gafah have gotten married and the presence of a younger and more beautiful woman in her marriage is what has put pressure on Florence Obinim to seek body enhancement.
The claim quickly went viral and was debunked by both Benedicta Gafah and Obinim. Gafah, in an Instagram post, said she’s not married and that whenever she ties the knot, she will be the first to inform her fans. Florence Obinim also stated that as far as she’s aware her husband has not married anyone else.
Reacting to her claim, netizens advised her to simply shut up and let the story die down.
“When the talking becomes plenty mean truth dey inside,” one netizen wrote.
Another said: “Florence the wey u dey reply reply yi de3 ebe like say something dey inside this matter,”
Madam Perpetual Ofori Ampofo, leader of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has said her husband’s NPP affiliation does not influence her. Madam Perpetual has come under attack after she said nurses will initiate a series of industrial actions in solidarity with nurses who will be affected by a directive to lay off staff recruited during the transition period.
Renowned Ghanaian highlife musician and songwriter Obiba Sly Collins, has advised young and upcoming artistes in the country to focus on building their craft rather than channeling efforts to secure recording deals.
According to him, it is important for upcoming artistes to focus on their talents rather than relying on a record label to promote their craft.
He suggested that they embrace technology in their daily musical endeavours and seek expert guidance from industry veterans.
He counseled aspiring musicians to follow their own rhythms and find strategies for remaining current in the field.
Sly Collins also urged young talents to create music that will inform listeners about societal challenges.
He clarified that funding is essential to the industry’s expansion, adding that it’s critical for aspiring musicians to understand the financial side of the music industry.
The Ghanaian music industry has a promising future, according to Sly Collins, stressing that the sector would advance if effectively promoted on the global music platform.
Obiba Sly Collins, who talked about his struggle to release his debut album, ‘Yen Boa Ghana’ in the 1990s, told BEATWAVES in an interview that he believed that the music industry had a bright future, and called for collaboration between music stakeholders to create a thriving Ghanaian music scene.
He asserts that Ghanaian musicians are sufficiently skilled to have their compositions performed on major international music stages to a global audience.
He, therefore, called on music industry players to preserve, develop, promote and protect highlife as a genre that represents the national identity, adding that highlife is a part of Ghanaian music and it is important to ensure it stays alive for long.
He pointed out that there is nothing wrong with trying to explore other genres, but would stay true to his originality as a highlife musician.
He, however, revealed that Nigeria has one of the biggest music markets in the world, so Ghanaian musicians trying to do something new to penetrate their market is a plus.
Sly Collins indicated that one of the reasons highlife’s appeal is dwindling is the lack of a concerted effort by Ghanaian music industry leaders to promote the genre.
Accra, Feb. 17, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Mr Kwame Ntow Amoah the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).
A statement issued by GNPC, copied to the Ghana News Agency said Mr Amoah takes over from Mr Edward Abambire Bawa, who has been reassigned to GOIL as Managing Director and Group CEO.
Throughout his career, Mr Amoah had held key leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Executive at GNPC and Advisor to the Minister of Energy/Director of Petroleum at the Ministry of Energy.
He has also served as Chairman and Member of various national, international, and industry boards and committees.
Mr Amoah has played a pivotal role in international arbitration cases involving Ghana.
His contributions include serving as Technical Advisor for Ghana in the Maritime Boundary Case, which the country won on September 23, 2017.
His efforts have led to securing significant investments, savings, and financing for both GNPC and the country.
He played a key role in attracting investments leading to the exploration successes that established Ghana as a commercial oil production province.
He was also instrumental in securing approximately $7 billion in investment for the Sankofa Oil and Gas Development Project, backed by $700 million in partial risk guarantees from the World Bank.
He holds an MBA from IMD, Switzerland, and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of Ghana.
Additionally, he has participated in various international leadership and management training programmes, as well as in courses in energy and petroleum management.
The statement said GNPC extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mr Amoah on his appointment and looks forward to his leadership in advancing the Corporation’s strategic vision.
“We are confident his expertise and dedication will drive GNPC’s continued growth and success,” it stated.
The Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is set to present the Government’s 2025 Budget and Economic Policy to Parliament on March 11, 2025.
This date replaces the initially proposed March 10, 2025 as Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga explained that Parliament does not sit on Mondays, making March 11 a more suitable option for the presentation.
Mr. Ayariga also shared that the Office of the President has communicated a provisional date for the State of the Nation Address to be presented on February 27, 2025.
However, this is contingent upon the availability of Parliament, according to the Majority Leader.
He explained that the address, which will be delivered by President John Dramani Mahama, will outline the government’s priorities for the upcoming year.
The Budget presentation will be a key moment for lawmakers to review the government’s fiscal policies, revenue plans, and economic projections for 2025.
This will set the stage for debates and discussions on the country’s financial future, as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government promises to scrap betting tax and E-Levy.
John Jinapor, energy minister
John Abdulai Jinapor, the Energy Minister has revealed a there is massive rot at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The minister noted that about 3,000 containers belonging to ECG are stuck at the port, incurring 1.5 billion in demurrage fees.
According to John Abdulai Jinapor, a container worth about $500,000 was also imported by the ECG but could not clear it and somehow the container was auctioned for 100,000 cedis.
He further revealed that the container sold for 100,000
Mr Samuel Kofi Ahiave Dzamesi, has officially handed over to the newly appointed acting CEO of Bui Power Authority, Mr Kow Eduakwa Sam, in accordance with a directive from the President.
In his address, Mr Dzamesi expressed his gratitude to the Management and Staff of BPA for their support during his tenure.
He recounted his journey as CEO, which began on September 3, 2021, and highlighted the challenges and achievements of his leadership.
Ing. Dzamesi emphasised the importance of teamwork and professionalism, noting that the Authority’s success was a collective one.
He expressed his confidence in the incoming CEO, Mr Sam, describing him as a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the Energy Sector.
He urged Management and Staff to extend their full support to the new CEO to ensure a smooth transition and continued progress for the Authority.
“I am delighted to hand over to Mr Sam, who comes with a wealth of experience from the energy sector. I am confident that he will build on the foundation we have laid and take BPA to even greater heights,” Mr Dzamesi stated.
Following his remarks, Mr Dzamesi formally presented his handover notes to Ing. Sam, symbolising the transfer of leadership responsibilities.
In his response, Mr Sam expressed his gratitude to His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama, and Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minster for Energy and Green Transition for the trust and confidence reposed in him.
He acknowledged the contributions of previous CEOs and commended their achievements in advancing the Authority’s mandate.
“I bring to BPA a wealth of experience and a commitment to firm, fair, and proactive leadership. The power sector is one that requires a high level of stakeholder consciousness, and I am determined to ensure that BPA remains responsive to the needs of all stakeholders,” Mr Sam indicated.
He also highlighted the importance of innovation and urged the young professionals within the Authority to harness their creativity to drive the organisation forward.
Mr Sam is a seasoned electrical engineer with over 25 years of experience in Strategic Leadership, Project and Contract Management, Protection and Control Engineering, Control and Instrumentation Engineering, as well as Technical and Energy Auditing.
He holds an MBA in Management Information Systems from the University of Ghana (2004) and a BSc in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (1998).
Additionally, he has earned postgraduate certificates in Project/Investment Appraisal and Risk Management from Duke University (2012) and Power System Analysis from the University of Pennsylvania (2011).
Scene from the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council on Monday, February 17, 2025
The Council of State election for the Ashanti Region is being re-held on Monday, February 17, 2025, after the election was marred by violence on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
A video shared b Citi FM on X from the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council where the exercise is being held, showed leading figures of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), including former Minister of Education, Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum, and former Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong being present.
Ken Agyapong and Dr. Adutwum were captured at the entrance of the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, which had been blocked by personnel of the Ghana Police Service.
The two men appeared not happy about being prevented from entering the venue for the election.
The former Assin Central legislator could be seen muttering some words as he was pointing fingers at some person behind the gate of the building that houses the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council.
He subsequently left the entrance of the building after pointing out his displeasure.
The former education minister, on the other hand, could be seen engaging the police officers who had blocked the entrance.
As Ken Agyapong was leaving, Dr. Adutwum was still engaging the police officers.
The chaos at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council on February 11, 2025, began right after the voting had ended.
A gang of unknown thugs broke into the polling centre and disrupted the sorting and counting of ballots.
Witnesses said the attackers stormed the venue, knocked over tables, destroyed ballot boxes, and scattered voting papers, forcing EC officials to halt the exercise.
Supporters who were upset with the results allegedly started the violence and demanded a review of the outcome.
Although there was a sizeable number of police personnel at the venue, they struggled to contain the situation as tensions flared, prompting a temporary suspension of the election proceedings.
The violent altercation left several media personnel, including GhanaWeb’s Ashanti Regional Correspondent, Gideon Nana Peprah, injured.
Sharing his ordeal with Etsey Atisu, Peprah said that about seven well-built men stormed the venue without provocation and began assaulting electoral officers.
“Built men from nowhere just stormed the place. They stormed the grounds where the electoral officers were doing the sorting and counting. Suddenly, they started scattering everything — the ballots, the prepared ballot papers, and the tally sheets. Then, at some point, they even started attacking themselves, which left us confused as to what was happening,” he narrated.
According to him, while trying to leave the chaotic scene, the men approached and accused him of filming the incident on his phone and demanded that he delete the footage.
“I was attacked by about seven or eight of them. They claimed they saw me taking videos and ordered me to delete them. Before I could react, they seized my phone and overpowered me,” he added.
BAI/EK
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV here:
You can also watch as John Jinapor narrates how National Security took his phone and laptop to the UK in 2017
President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his government’s commitment to stabilizing Ghana’s economy as a foundation for sustainable development.
Speaking at the Africa Business Forum 2025 on Monday, February 17, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mahama outlined strategic efforts to address key economic challenges, including the depreciation of the cedi, high inflation, soaring interest rates, and the growing debt burden.
The forum, organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, focused on the theme: “Moving from Potential to Prosperity: Activating Africa’s Regional Value Chain.”
During the discussions, President Mahama stressed the importance of analyzing the root causes of Ghana’s economic crisis while implementing decisive measures, including a comprehensive debt management plan.
“In a crisis, the first thing that you do is to focus on stabilising, and that is what we are focused on—bringing interest rates and inflation down, stabilising the currency, and dealing with debt overhang. That is where our focus is for now,” he said.
He further emphasized the need to understand the factors that led to the crisis and to take steps to ensure it does not recur.
“At the same time, we must analyse the factors that brought Ghana to this point and implement steps to ensure we do not end up in this situation again. That will entail strengthening the Fiscal Responsibility Act and the Public Financial Management Act.
“We need to cut out waste and reduce corruption. These are some of the critical issues that must be addressed,” he assured.
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During the United Showbiz discussion, Mark Okraku-Mantey’s reluctance to appear on the show, based on his belief that it no longer focuses on pertinent entertainment issues but instead resorts to politics and other issues, came up.
This sparked varied reactions from the panellists, including Nana Aba Anamoah, who severely lashed out at the former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, describing him as someone who had failed to address key issues in the entertainment industry while in a position of influence.
Earlier, on Peace FM’s Entertainment Review, Mark Okraku-Mantey suggested changing the name of ‘United Showbiz’ because the show no longer focuses on showbiz topics.
Peace FM’s Kwasi Abogye asked when Mark Okraku-Mantey would appear on the show, to which Mark responded, “When we have proper conversations. Do you know that show is no longer showbiz? You need to change its name. I don’t have a problem with the show. When the ethics work over there, I’ll come. Now, I don’t know where I will fit in.”
When this issue was raised for discussion, Nana Aba Anamoah immediately jumped in, asserting that Okraku-Mantey had no right to criticise the show for discussing pertinent issues when he had failed to contribute to resolving them during his time in office.
“He said there are issues in the entertainment industry. How did he deal with that when he was a radio presenter for a very long time? How did he use his space? How did he use his space to deal with all those issues?
“He was given a position that could have allowed him to make the space he is complaining about better. What was his impact? It was zero. You know what? He sounds better when he is quiet. He shouldn’t talk about what people are doing in his space because he has not been impactful,” she stated, visibly upset.
While introducing his topic, the United Showbiz host Empress Gifty addressed him as “honourable,” but Nana Aba Anamoah felt he didn’t deserve that title.
“He is not an honourable. Don’t give people titles when they don’t own them. He is not a member of parliament. He has never been,” she fumed.
This development, captured in a video making the rounds online, has drawn mixed reactions.
Many have criticised Nana Aba for her harsh statements, with some even questioning if she has a personal vendetta against Mark Okraku-Mantey.
On the other hand, others sided with her sentiments.
You can also watch the latest episode of Moans and Cuddles on GhanaWeb TV below:
The late Victor Selorney was a former Deputy Minister of Finance
The name Francis Yao Selormey has resurfaced amidst discussions around the declaration of former Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, as a wanted fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
Born Victor Lawrence Kwashie Selormey, the economist who served as Deputy Minister of Finance under Jerry John Rawlings’s government, was convicted by a court on charges related to financial impropriety.
He was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment in 2001 for defrauding by false pretenses and causing financial loss to the state.
To some advocates of accountability, the case of Victor Selormey underscores the duty of public officers to manage public resources judiciously.
For others, including his family, his case represents pure political persecution, which ultimately cost him his life.
In a recent Facebook post, a relative of the late former Deputy Minister of Finance, Francis Yao Selormey, recounted how his relative willingly returned to Ghana to defend himself while under investigation for corruption while receiving medical treatment abroad.
According to Francis, upon arriving in Ghana, his relative was arrested at Kotoka International Airport in a manner reminiscent of an American movie.
“When the late Victor Selormey was accused of corruption while seeking medical attention abroad, he willingly returned to defend himself. He was arrested at the airport in a ‘Rambo’ style, detained, and eventually jailed, all for political vindictiveness,” he wrote.
As widely reported, Francis Selormey affirmed that his relative, who was battling cardiac issues and had a pacemaker, was incarcerated at Nsawam Prison and was only taken to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital for medical treatment when his condition deteriorated, despite his family’s continuous pleas for him to receive treatment abroad.
“This was a man who had a pacemaker and was suffering from cardiac issues. He was held in Nsawam with an oxygen tank. His family pleaded for him to receive medical attention abroad. It was only when his condition worsened that he was rushed to Korle Bu, where he later died. The family, including myself, endured a lot of stigmatization during this period,” Francis added.
The prosecution of the late former deputy minister centered around the sale of 60% of GNPC’s 40% shareholding in LEEBDA Corporation to an American company, Amromco Energy LLC, for $20 million in 1998.
The core of the allegations was that LEEBDA Corporation did not exist at the time of the supposed sale, and thus, no shares could legally be sold.
The prosecution argued that Selormey and others conspired to defraud the state by selling shares of a non-existent company, claiming that no such company was registered in Delaware, USA, where LEEBDA was supposedly incorporated.
The defense contended that LEEBDA did exist but had been dissolved before the transaction was completed. They argued that Selormey was unaware of LEEBDA’s dissolution at the time of the deal. Furthermore, they claimed that crucial evidence was withheld by the prosecution, which would have shown that LEEBDA indeed existed at one point.
The trial and conviction of Victor Selormey remain controversial due to claims that the prosecution withheld evidence like documents from Delaware confirming LEEBDA’s existence, potentially exonerating Selormey or at least providing a different perspective on his actions.
Francis Yao Selormey’s post comes after the OSP declared former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, a wanted fugitive in connection with four high-profile corruption investigations.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stated that Ofori-Atta, who is reported to be receiving medical treatment in America, must return to Ghana immediately to face questioning, warning that failure to comply would lead to steps to compel his return.
The Minority Leader of Parliament, Afenyo-Markin, commented that Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, willing to return at an appropriate time, has been left traumatized by the OSP’s declaration.
However, according to Francis Selormey, Mr. Ofori-Atta could return and defend himself while receiving medical attention in Ghana.
“Today, Ken Ofori-Atta is said to be traumatized and seeking medical attention so can’t avail himself. Well, thankfully UGMC and Agenda 111 can manage his health while he proves himself innocent,” he added.
GA/KE
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV here:
For many athletes, the journey to greatness begins with a spark of inspiration. For Ghana’s Marie Agbah-Hughes, it was the thrill of the Olympic Games that ignited her passion for sports, setting her on a path to pursue her dreams and lift her way to success.
Speaking in an interview on GhanaWeb TV’s Sports Check, Agbah-Hughes shared how she initially aspired to be a runner but soon realized it wasn’t the right fit for her.
“It’s really hard to be a runner, but I kept trying. Two days later, I’d get sick. I just wanted to do what the boys were doing, but I knew it wasn’t for me,” she recalled.
However, growing up, she found herself captivated by gymnastics whenever the Olympics were on.
“Every time the Summer Olympics were on, I’d be in front of the TV, watching everything,” she said.
Though life took her down a different path, her love for gymnastics never faded. Moving to the U.S. reignited her enthusiasm as she saw firsthand how deeply embedded gymnastics was in American sports culture.
This experience left her wishing Ghana had similar opportunities for young athletes.
“I used to love gymnastics, and I still do. I wish Ghana had gymnastics gyms because when I got to the U.S., I had friends who were taking their kids to gymnastics after school. In high school, I knew people who trained regularly, and it was very likely that any of them could reach the Olympic level because it was such a big part of the culture,” she added.
Some people came out to cheer the M23 fighters as they entered Bukavu without resistance on Sunday
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have entered Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, seizing the regional governor’s office.
Some people lined the streets to clap and cheer the fighters as they marched and drove into the city centre without resistance. It is the second city after Goma to fall to the rebels in the mineral-rich region in the past few weeks.
The Congolese government has acknowledged its fall and urged residents to stay at home “to avoid being targeted by the occupying forces”.
The UN and European countries have warned that the latest offensive, which has seen hundreds of thousands of people forced from their homes, could spark a wider regional war.
A resident in Bukavu, who asked to remain anonymous because of concerns for her safety, told the BBC on Sunday that most people were still afraid to leave their homes.
“Since yesterday, the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions; they are looting,” she said.
“This morning, the M23 entered, and they were acclaimed by the people, very happy to see them. We don’t know if it’s because they are afraid or because they found that there were no authorities in the city.
“The place where I live, the crackling [gunfire] can still be heard.”
On Friday, the M23 captured Bukavu’s main airport, which is about 30km (18 miles) north of the city – and then began advancing slowly towards the city, which is the capital of South-Kivu province.
The provincial governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki, confirmed to the Reuters news agency the fighters were in Bukavu city centre by Sunday morning, adding that Congolese troops had withdrawn to avoid urban fighting.
This left a security vacuum in the city on Saturday, with chaotic scenes playing out, including a reported prison break from the central prison.
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) said a warehouse with nearly 7,000 tonnes of food was looted.
The city of around two million people on the southern tip of Lake Kivu borders Rwanda and is an important transit point for the local mineral trade.
Its fall represents an unprecedented expansion of territory for the M23 since their latest insurgency started in late 2021 – and is a blow to the government of President Félix Tshisekedi.
Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said Rwanda was violating DR Congo’s territorial integrity through expansionist ambitions and human rights abuses.
The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of sowing chaos in the region – as well as having troops on the ground – so it can benefit from its natural resources, something Kigali denies.
President Tshisekedi wants his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame, to face sanctions over the latest unrest.
But President Kagame has dismissed such threats – and has repeatedly pointed out that Rwanda’s main priority is its security.
He has long been angered by what he sees as the failure of the Congolese authorities to deal with the DR Congo-based FLDR rebel group, which he sees as a danger to Rwanda.
The group is made up of some members of the ethnic Hutu militia accused of involvement in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda when, over 100 days, around 800,000 people, mainly from the Tutsi ethnic group, were killed.
Troops from the Tusti-led M23 gathered at the Place de l’Indépendance in central Bukavu on Sunday, where one of its commanders, Bernard Byamungu, was filmed chatting to locals and answering their questions in Swahili.
He urged government forces “hiding in houses” to surrender – and accused the withdrawing military of spreading terror by arming local youths who had gone on a looting rampage.
The African Union (AU)—which is holding a heads of state summit in Ethiopia this weekend—again urged the M23 to disarm.
“We are all very, very concerned about an open regional war,” Reuters quotes the AU’s peace and security commissioner Bankole Adeo as saying.
Controversial Ghanaian gospel musician, Diana Asamoah, has hit back at critics spreading false rumours about her sexuality, stating that their accusations will not deter her from preaching the gospel and speaking the truth.
Speaking on Angel FM, the outspoken singer made it clear that she has no intention of stopping her ministry due to baseless allegations. She described claims labelling her a lesbian as absurd, reiterating that she remains steadfast in her faith.
Diana Asamoah, who revealed some years ago that she is a virgin and waiting on God’s timing for the right man, dismissed the accusations as mere attempts to tarnish her image.
The rumours surfaced amid her recent feud with fellow gospel musician Cecelia Marfo. During their altercation, Diana Asamoah called out Cecelia Marfo for sacking her husband with her terrible attitude. She asked Cecelia Marfo to channel her energy into restoring her marriage instead of lambasting her for condemning Prophet Ogyaba for fornicating.
Reacting to this a TikTok user alleged that Asamoah was involved in a same-sex relationship, sparking widespread debate. She claimed that because of her bad attitude, she can’t get married and has resorted to dating her fellow women.
However, Diana Asamoah has categorically denied these claims, insisting that no amount of falsehood will shake her commitment to spreading God’s word.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has brought charges against six individuals at the High Court in Tamale, Northern Region, for offences relating to payroll fraud and corruption.
The accused—Yakubu Tahidu, Abdulai Abukari Sadic, Sammy Suuk, Mohammed Yusif Jay, Stafford Korletey Azudey-Barres, and Osman Issahaku—face 17 counts of corruption, alleged to have caused financial loss to the state.
This case arose from a referral by National Security, which alleged that Yakubu Tahidu, though no longer a teacher, continued to receive salaries while employed at another government agency.
The remaining accused are alleged to have knowingly facilitated or failed to prevent the fraudulent payments.
Yakubu Tahidu, formerly a teacher at Balogu M/A JHS, is accused of illegally receiving salaries after vacating his post to join the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC).
Abdulai Abukari Sadic, the Yendi Municipal IPPD Coordinator, and Sammy Suuk, a Schools Improvement Support Officer, are accused of facilitating salary validations for the first accused.
Mohammed Yusif Jay, the former headteacher of Balogu M/A JHS, allegedly validated the salaries despite being reassigned to another school.
Stafford Korletey Azudey-Barres, an Assistant Chief Accounts Technician at the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department, is alleged to have aided the processing of fraudulent payments.
Osman Issahaku, the current headteacher of Balogu M/A JHS, is accused of continuing to validate the irregular payments.
The OSP continues to investigate and prosecute cases to safeguard public funds and uphold accountability.
Gospel sensation, Miss P Jay, who is credited with a number of songs, has officially released her new single titled ‘Odo Ne Han’.
Produced by Qoff, the jama gospel song with easy lyrics begins with a powerful instrumentation followed by a strong vocal delivery.
This highly-anticipated release has already started making waves in the music industry, with fans and critics alike praising its fusion of jama and highlife rhythms and rich instrumentation.
The song, BEATWAVES gathered, offers great inspiration to all Christians, and educates them about the fact that their help will come from God only if they look up to Him.
The well-arranged mid-tempo song with beautiful highlife rhythm and beat to match was written and produced by the gospel artiste herself.
The song, which is available on various online digital platforms including YouTube for download, was recorded to encourage people to draw closer to God.
The music video, shot at some selected locations across the capital, complements the song’s message of triumph and perseverance, using vibrant visuals and captivating storytelling to bring the lyrics to life.
Miss P Jay is hopeful that her new single would touch the hearts of many music lovers, including Christians, and help them to have breakthroughs in their lives.
She remains passionate, driven by the hope to touch lives across the globe and win as many souls as possible for Christ.
Miss P Jay, who joined the gospel music industry 15 years ago, has been very active, producing inspirational songs to win souls for Christ.
A source close to Miss P Jay told BEATWAVES that she is ready to transform the gospel music industry in Ghana with her style of music fused with traditional rhythms and beats.
The source added that the gospel songbird is working tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure her presence is felt in the Ghanaian gospel music industry.
Kumasi, Feb 17, GNA – The Police have arrested some youth suspected to be NDC supporters for their alleged attempt to disrupt the ongoing council of state elections at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi.
More soon.
The Council of State election in Ashanti is being re-run Monday, February 17, 2025 after the process was disrupted last week.
Unidentified thugs invaded the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, where the election was taking place and destroyed ballot papers.
They attacked any person on sight, destroyed the ballot boxes, tables, chairs and ballot papers.
Scores of people, including journalists, have been injured in the disturbances.
Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah being interviewed by the press
KUMASI MEMBERS of Parliament (MPs) Bloc, a group of parliamentarians from the Ashanti Region, has raised concerns about nolle prosequi filed by the Attorney General (AG), Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, to free some former appointees of the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, indicating it undermines President John Dramani Mahama’s fight against corruption.
“The various nolle prosequi that have been filed by the Attorney General, raises serious issues about the government’s fight against corruption. It raises issues about its sincerity, it raises issues about its good faith, it raises issues about whether or not the Attorney General we have is not going to be a partisan Attorney General, who is going to pursue just members who are not members of the NDC,” Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, secretary of the bloc said.
According to the MPs, Dr. Asiama was involved in the supervision of banks that collapsed, hence he does not merit the position as Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
“We all know when the banking sector collapsed, he was involved to the extent that following investigation, he was accused in two different cases of complicity and culpability in those cases. One of them was the trial in the UT Bank case. He was an accused there. The other one is a trial of the uniBank cases – he was also an accused there.”
Mr. Baffour Awuah made these assertions at the Suame Magazine Hub in the Suame Municipality when the Kumasi MPs bloc paid a visit to the Suame Auto Mechanic Hub to commiserate with artisans who were affected in the recent fire outbreak which gutted the area and destroyed properties, running into millions of cedis.
Chaired by Mr. Francis Assenso Boakye, the MP for Bantama Constituency, the bloc is made of ten MPs from different constituencies in Kumasi.
Speaking to the media, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the MP for Manhyia South Constituency, challenged the nolle prosequi filed by the AG recently to discharge people standing trials in court, asking “are we saying that now, being a card-bearing member of the NDC is going to make you immune to criminal prosecution in this country? Is that what the Attorney General is saying?”
He observed that this is the major decision Dr. Ayine has made since taking office as Attorney General, adding that the decision by the AG indicates how important it was to him and the NDC government.
“It indicates how important it meant to the government, right? To the extent that one of them has even been made the Governor of the Bank of Ghana. What message are we sending to Ghanaians, that the whole resetting agenda was making sure we are going to launder our people and then pursue others,” the Manhyia South MP asked.
“And more importantly, it raises another question: Is President Mahama more sincere about his fight against corruption after all? Is it the case that he is taking his people and he is not going to pursue anybody?” he quizzed.
Mr. Awuah added that the withdrawal of the cases raises fundamental questions, and the AG has to take a second look at what he has done “because it is a major political risk for all of us as elite politicians.”
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has 8 brought charges against six (6) persons at the Tamale High Court.
The six accused — Yakubu Tahidu, Abdulai Abukari Sadic, Sammy Suuk, Mohammed Yusif Jay, Stafford Korletey Azudey-Barres, and Osman Issahaku — face 17 counts of corruption, which are alleged to have caused significant financial loss to the state.
Tema, Feb. 17, GNA – The Waste Management Department of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) has commenced work to address overflowing sewers in Tema Community One.
The overflowing sewer has left liquid waste flowing in major parts of the business area in Tema Community One, causing inconvenience to residents and businesses.
A team of sanitation workers from the TMA, equipped with cleaning equipment, began desilting the affected areas over the weekend.
The spillage, which affected many areas, including a sewer chamber located a few meters near the assembly’s entrance, caused insanitary conditions, forcing some sellers of boiled eggs and fruits to vacate the place.
Madam Bertha Essel, Head of Waste Management, TMA, said they identified a major blockage in the sewer system at Tema Community One, at the Casino area, as the primary cause of the sanitation challenges in the vicinity.
Madam Essel said to address the situation, there was the need to temporarily block other sewer lines in the area for sanitation workers and engineers to carry out the required maintenance and unclogging operations.
She assured residents that the necessary interventions were being implemented, and the issue would be fully resolved.
Mr. Ofori Laryea, the Sewer Manager at Tema Metro, attributed the blockage in the sewer system to the accumulation of solid waste and debris in the drainage network.
He said the buildup had significantly hindered the proper flow of wastewater, leading to sanitation challenges in the affected areas.
Mr. Laryea said the department was intensifying efforts to clear clogged drains and implement preventive strategies to reduce the recurrence of such blockages.
He emphasised the critical role of proper waste disposal in maintaining a functional drainage system and urged the residents to refrain from dumping solid waste into gutters and sewers, as such actions contribute to severe blockages, particularly during the rainy seasons.
He said some sewers and drainages remained uncovered due to their locations, making them more susceptible to accumulating debris and other materials.
Meanwhile, some residents, while welcoming the cleanup efforts, expressed frustration over the recurring nature of such incidents, which they say has become a long-standing health hazard.
Some passengers also expressed concern over the presence of swarms of flies around the exposed sewer waste, particularly during spillage.
They described the situation as both insanitary and unpleasant, noting that the back of the TMA had unfortunately become a gathering spot for smokers, junkies, and other individuals who frequently urinated in the area, contributing to the persistent foul odour.
The resident said they feared the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to the waste, including the spread of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and other waterborne infections.
“We have lost count of the number of times the sewer has spilt; they need to find a permanent solution to this problem. How can the sewer be getting spoilt a few meters from the Assembly, and it’ll take days before they work on it?” Mr. Kwabena Owusu, a resident, said.
“It is sad how this place becomes a breeding ground for flies and faeces anytime there’s a spill, and I have lost count of the number of times this sewer spills, and if care is not taken, Tema will be one of the cholera-prone areas,” Ms. Celestine Tetteh, a fruit seller, said.
Founder and leader of Perez Chapel International, Bishop Charles Agyinasare
Founder and leader of Perez Chapel International, Bishop Charles Agyinasare, has cautioned individuals in relationships against prioritising sexual intimacy during the dating phase.
In a video shared online on February 17, 2025, the renowned Ghanaian pastor, while addressing the congregation, emphasised that dating should be a time for gathering information and understanding one’s partner, rather than a period focused on physical intimacy.
“Remember that dating is not for mating or for coupling. When you start going out with somebody, it’s not for you to have sex together. Because mating will cloud your judgment. Your period of meeting is the period of gathering data,” Archbishop Agyinasare stated.
He further warned that failing to thoroughly understand a partner before marriage could lead to significant problems afterward.
“The truth of the matter is, if you don’t do more work on the person you are going to marry before you marry, you will do more work after the marriage,” he added.
Ghanaian Afrobeats singer, Olivetheboy, has received a plaque from Audiomack after surpassing 100 million streams on the streaming platform.
This accomplishment underscores his rapid ascent in the music industry and the widespread appeal of his sound.
Born Joel Ofori Bonsu on October 19, 2002, in Konongo, Ghana, Olivetheboy embarked on his musical journey in 2020 after completing his education at Opoku Ware Senior High School.
His debut EP, ‘AVANA,’ released in May 2023, features the standout track ‘GOODSIN’, which played a pivotal role in propelling him to prominence. The song became the most streamed in Ghana in the first half of 2023.
In recognition of his burgeoning talent and growing influence, Olivetheboy secured a deal with Sony ’s Columbia Records through its subsidiary Bu Vision Entertainment in August 2023. This partnership aims to amplify his presence on the global stage.
As Olivetheboy continues to break barriers and set new records, the global music community keenly anticipates his future projects and contributions to the Afrobeats genre.
President John Mahama is advocating for the swift establishment of key financial institutions to drive Africa’s economic integration and reduce reliance on foreign aid.
Delivering his keynote address as Champion of African Union Financial Institutions at the Heads of State and Government breakfast dialogue at the AU Commission headquarters in Addis Ababa, President Mahama called for accelerated efforts to establish an African Central Bank, an African Investment Bank, an African Monetary Fund, and a Pan-African Stock Exchange.
He emphasized that the African Central Bank would play a crucial role in deepening economic cooperation by creating a common monetary policy and a single African currency.
“By mobilizing resources, facilitating trade, and financing infrastructure projects, these can reduce dependence on external aid and create a self-sustaining economic ecosystem for Africa. The African Central Bank is aimed at establishing a single African currency, which will help to reduce exchange rate risks and enhance investment flows across the continent.”
President Mahama further revealed progress in establishing the African Monetary Institute (AMI), a precursor to the African Central Bank.
“I am pleased to inform you that the ministers of finance and the central bank governors have endorsed the draft statute of the Africa Monetary Institute (AMI) through the specialized technical committee on finance, monetary affairs, economic planning, and integration. The AMI will serve as a precursor to the African Central Bank and will carry out essential preparatory work, including technical and legal assessments, as well as ensuring the implementation of macro-economic convergence criteria.”
The Role of Key Financial Institutions
The African Investment Bank (AIB) is expected to foster economic growth and accelerate integration by mobilizing resources from both African and global capital markets to finance investment projects across the continent.
The African Monetary Fund (AMF) will work to eliminate trade restrictions, enhance monetary integration, and provide financial assistance to AU member states.
“The Fund will prioritize regional macro-economic objectives in its lending policies. It will also be providing financial assistance to AU member states as part of its objectives.”
President Mahama also highlighted progress toward establishing a Pan-African Stock Exchange, which aims to integrate capital markets and enhance investment flows within Africa.
“The Pan-African Stock Exchange is envisaged to integrate capital markets, making it easier for businesses to raise capital and thereby enhancing liquidity, promoting intra-African investments, and providing alternative financing mechanisms for governments and the private sector.
“Progress is being made towards the establishment of this exchange, with the Commission and the African Security Exchanges Association working on the Exchange’s linkages project. This initiative also aims to enhance liquidity and facilitate capital mobilization across African nations. We encourage more African Stock Exchanges to join this important project.”
President Mahama’s call for urgent action underscores the need for Africa to build its own financial infrastructure, ensuring long-term economic sustainability and reduced dependency on external aid.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has arrived at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi ahead of today’s crucial Council of State re-election. This highly anticipated poll will determine the region’s representative in the Council of State, following a directive from the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct a fresh election after the previous attempt was marred by disruptions.
Dr. Amoakohene, who took office after the 2024 general elections, was seen engaging with key stakeholders, including Electoral Commission officials, traditional leaders, and some delegates before the official commencement of the voting process. His presence underscores the importance of the election, as the chosen representative will serve as a key advisor to President John Dramani Mahama, ensuring that the interests of the Ashanti Region are well represented at the national level.
Security has been significantly bolstered around the venue, with heavily armed police officers and other security personnel deployed to maintain order. The presence of political party representatives and election observers further highlights the significance of today’s re-election. Delegates and stakeholders are hopeful for a smooth and fair process, unlike the previous election, which was marred by violence.
The initial Council of State election in the Ashanti Region, held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, was abruptly disrupted when a group of unidentified heavily built men, commonly referred to as ‘machomen,’ stormed the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council. Their presence caused chaos and prevented the Electoral Commission from concluding the voting process or announcing a winner. The violent invasion prompted the EC to reschedule the election, citing the need for transparency, security, and fairness.
Political analysts believe this re-election holds substantial implications for governance in the Ashanti Region. The elected representative will have direct access to the presidency, offering counsel on critical policies and development projects that impact the region. Given the Ashanti Region’s economic and political influence, this election is viewed as a key event in shaping its future trajectory under the Mahama-led administration.
As the voting process gets underway, all eyes are on the Prempeh Assembly Hall, where the fate of the Ashanti Region’s Council of State representative will soon be decided. The outcome of this election is expected to have far-reaching effects on the region’s political landscape and its engagement with the national government.
Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency, Mustapha Gbande, has issued a strong warning that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta will face justice, even in death, if he refuses to return to Ghana.
Gbande emphasised that all necessary measures would be taken to bring Ofori-Atta back to the country and recover any stolen public funds.
His comments follow the official declaration of Ofori-Atta as a suspect in four high-profile corruption investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on February 12, 2025.
These investigations include allegations related to the National Cathedral project, Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), and two other ongoing cases.
At a press briefing on February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng declared Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted person, urging him to return to Ghana immediately to face questioning. Agyebeng warned that failure to comply would result in legal measures to enforce his return.
“If Ken Ofori-Atta should refuse to come, every measure will be deployed to bring him down to this country. If for any reason he passes on, his dead body will be prosecuted and jailed, and every stolen money belonging to the people of Ghana will be retrieved. It is not just an agenda of government but a mandate,” Agyebeng said.
Meanwhile, in an interview with Joy News on Monday, February 17, Mustapha Gbande reaffirmed his commitment to integrity.
“I fear to steal what is for the public, I will never steal what is for the public. If for any reason I come into contact with a decision to harm the people of this country, I will rather be poor, so that Ghanaians will respect me for it,” he stated.
Gbande added that he holds the respect of the people in higher regard than personal wealth and would never compromise his values for personal gain.
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Former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and MP for Bekwai, Joseph Osei-Owusu
Former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Bekwai, Joseph Osei-Owusu, has challenged the perception that only graduates of elite schools can achieve great success.
Speaking on Akoto Mansa’s Asetena Pa show, monitored by MyNewsGH, he revealed that he did not attend a prestigious institution but still worked his way to prominence through determination and perseverance.
“I was born in Bekwai and attended Juabeng Senior High School, which many consider a grade-three school,” he said.
When Akoto Mansa pointed out that many were curious about how he attended such a school yet rose to a high-ranking political position, Osei-Owusu dismissed the notion that some schools are inherently superior.
“The idea of ‘big schools’ is misleading,” he explained.
“What makes a school great is the achievements of the individuals who pass through it, not necessarily the institution itself,” he added.
The seasoned politician also shared his deep passion for law, revealing that his childhood admiration for lawyers played a key role in shaping his career path.
“As a young boy, I used to visit courthouses just to watch lawyers in action. I was fascinated by how they spoke English so fluently and eloquently,” he recalled.
The owner of Elmina Sharks, Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, has strongly criticized the Ghana Football Association (GFA) over its handling of football management in the country.
Speaking with GTV Sports Plus, Nduom expressed frustration over the state of officiating, security, and financial management within the Ghanaian football system.
In his statement, he called for better officiating, improved payment structures for referees, and a stronger commitment to making the league safer and more entertaining.
“Don’t take a clip and say shouldn’t someone take responsibility. It is the GFA. They take responsibility. They must make everybody safe. They must make the games entertaining, they must pay the refs appropriately and pay everybody well, not just take FIFA money and go and rest somewhere,” he stated.
His comments come in reaction to the chaos that erupted at the Nduom Sports Complex during Elmina Shark’s 1-0 defeat to Swedru All Blacks.
In a viral video, Sharks players were spotted attacking one referee after awarding an alleged controversial penalty to All Black Stars, which turned out to be the match-winner.
The Founder and General Overseer of Alive Chapel International, Bishop Salifu Amoako, and his wife, Mouha Amoako, have been re-arrested after being discharged from a legal case involving their son.
According to a report by GHOne TV, the Attorney General, on Monday, February 17, 2025, withdrew the charges against Bishop Amoako, his wife, and another individual who were being prosecuted for allowing their son to drive without a license.
However, the GHOne report stated that the couple were re-arrested immediately after exiting the court on Monday.
The 16-year-old son of Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako was sentenced on December 19, 2024, to serve six months at a senior correctional center.
This followed his guilty plea to eight charges, including two counts of manslaughter, for a tragic road crash in East Legon that claimed the lives of two preteens.
Before his sentencing, Salifu Amoako’s son was remanded by the Family and Juvenile Court and held at the Osu Correctional Centre while he was being prosecuted for causing the crash.
According to police prosecutors, he had been showing off the speed of the Jaguar F-Pace Sport, which belonged to his parents, when it collided with a black Acura in which the victims were traveling.
The report indicated that Salifu Amoako’s son drove the white Jaguar with a friend to A&C Mall, where they met additional friends waiting in two SUVs.
The three vehicles formed a convoy, with the accused leading in his mother’s car—the Jaguar—as they drove through the East Legon area.
During proceedings at the Family and Juvenile Court, the 16-year-old initially pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The court remanded him into custody, addressing the conditions of his remand and outlining specific directives for his care.
Salifu Amoako, his wife, Mouha Amoako, and Linda Bonsu Prempeh, a sales assistant, were also arrested following the accident.
The Accra Circuit Court granted bail to Salifu Amoako and Mouha Amoako at GH¢50,000 each, with two sureties.
Linda Bonsu Prempeh, who allegedly provided the key to the vehicle involved in the accident, was also granted bail under the same conditions, with two sureties, without justification.
The three individuals had been charged with “permitting an unlicensed person to drive,” and all pleaded not guilty during their court appearance on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.
According to GhanaWeb, Rev. Isaac Owusu-Bempah, the founder and leader of Glorious Word Power Ministries International, has urged Ghanaians to consider ways to prolong President John Dramani Mahama’s time in office beyond the constitutional limits.
