The recent revelations surrounding Rev. John Ntim-Fordjour, Edmond Oppong-Peprah, and Eric Yeboah—accused of defrauding businessman Sylvester Agyen of GH₵600,000—are yet another damning indictment of Ghana’s governance landscape. The allegations, if proven true, expose not just individual greed but a systemic decay, where political and religious figures exploit their influence for personal gain while preaching integrity.
This is Not Just Another Scandal—It’s a Warning
For too long, Ghana has been plagued by a culture where those entrusted with leadership use deception and favoritism to enrich themselves, rather than serve the people. Ntim-Fordjour, a lawmaker and a reverend, must be held to the same standard as any other citizen. His dual roles demand even greater accountability—not exemption from scrutiny.
The fact that GH₵400,000 has been refunded while GH₵200,000 remains unpaid is irrelevant to the larger issue. This is about justice. If the allegations are substantiated, repayment cannot substitute legal consequences. Fraud is fraud. The Ghanaian people are tired of leaders who manipulate systems for personal profit while masquerading as ethical voices.
A Call to Action: The Inspector General of Police Must Enforce the Law Without Bias
This case must serve as a defining moment for Ghana’s criminal justice system. I call upon the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to uphold the rule of law impartially and decisively.
No delays. No favoritism. No quiet settlements behind closed doors. Those implicated **must be investigated with the same urgency as any other fraud case. If guilty, they must face the full force of the law—imprisonment, asset recovery, and permanent disqualification from public office.
Ghanaians demand real consequences, not performative justice. If individuals in political and religious authority escape accountability, it sends a dangerous message—that the law exists only for the powerless, not the privileged.
Beyond One Scandal: A Roadmap for Systemic Reform
To prevent similar fraud schemes, we demand reforms that eliminate the opportunities for deception:
Mandatory Public Disclosure of All Government Contracts: Every awarded contract must be accessible to the public, ensuring no fraudulent deals are presented as legitimate opportunities. Independent Oversight Committee: Ghana needs a nonpartisan entity to review all high-value contract approvals, eliminating political favoritism. Strict Penalties for Political and Religious Fraud: Leaders who engage in deceit under the guise of governance or morality must face harsher legal consequences. Stronger Protections for Whistleblowers: Too often, individuals fear retaliation for exposing fraud. Legal and financial protections must be guaranteed for those who bring such corruption to light.
Conclusion: Corruption Must Be Costly
If Ghana is to progress, justice must be uncompromising. Whether the accused is a politician, a reverend, or an ordinary citizen, fraud must be met with severe consequences. The people must demand accountability—not just from Ntim-Fordjour, but from every leader who believes influence is a shield against justice.
This moment must not pass as just another headline—it must ignite a relentless demand for reform.
Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
[email protected]
