The Director-General of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Nana Attobrah Quaicoe, has strongly refuted allegations that he contacted the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee to relinquish a parcel of state-owned land he allegedly acquired illegally.
Allegations from ORAL committee member
The claims, made by Martin Kpebu, a member of the ORAL Committee, suggest that Mr. Quaicoe had reached out to the committee to return the parcel of land in exchange for halting further actions against him.
Kpebu made the accusations during a televised appearance on TV3’s Keypoints, alleging that Mr. Quaicoe’s actions were part of efforts to avoid repercussions from the committee.
The ORAL Committee, established by President John Dramani Mahama on December 18, 2024, was created to recover unlawfully acquired state assets.
Chaired by Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the committee’s mandate includes ensuring accountability and restoring public confidence in the management of state properties.
Quaicoe rejects accusations as baseless
In a detailed response issued by his legal representatives, KUDZE@LAW, Mr. Quaicoe described the allegations as “contrived, false, and without any basis.”
The statement categorically denied any interaction between Mr. Quaicoe and the ORAL Committee or its members, including Hon. Ablakwa.
The statement emphasized that Mr. Quaicoe does not own or hold any illegally acquired government land, contrary to the claims made by Martin Kpebu.
It also reiterated the NIB Director-General’s commitment to transparency and adherence to lawful processes in all his dealings.
“We urge the public to disregard these false statements calculated to injure our client’s reputation,” the statement declared.
Call for retraction and legal warning
Mr. Quaicoe’s legal team, led by Saviour Quarcoo Kudze, has demanded a public retraction of what it terms “utterly false and defamatory statements” by Martin Kpebu.
The statement warned that if the retraction is not made, legal action may be taken to protect Mr. Quaicoe’s rights and reputation.
The legal team further emphasized their dedication to defending their client’s integrity and ensuring that the truth prevails in this matter.
ORAL committee’s role and public trust
The ORAL Committee’s establishment was a key step in President Mahama’s efforts to recover state assets and enhance accountability.
The five-member team is tasked with investigating and retrieving properties unlawfully acquired by individuals, particularly during previous administrations.
The recent allegations have highlighted the challenges the committee faces in fulfilling its mandate.
While its work is crucial for restoring public trust, controversies like this risk undermining the credibility of both the committee and those it investigates.
A call for clarity and due process
The dispute between Mr. Quaicoe and the ORAL Committee underscores the need for clear communication and adherence to due process in matters involving state resources.
As the allegations and denials play out, the public is watching closely, seeking truth and transparency.
Whether through legal proceedings or further investigations, this case serves as a critical test of the government’s resolve to ensure justice and accountability in the management of state assets.
