The National Service Authority (NSA) has dismissed recent allegations of payroll fraud and the inclusion of ghost names on its payroll, describing the claims as baseless and unfounded.
Addressing the accusations in a press release signed by the Director-General Osei Assibey Antwi on Monday, December 16, 2024, the NSA stated that the allegations, which span service years from 2018/2019 to 2023/2024, were misleading and without merit.
“The Authority wishes to state categorically that these allegations are extremely baseless and unfounded,” it noted.
The NSA emphasised that since 2021, it has implemented robust electronic measures that have significantly enhanced checks and balances in the mobilisation and deployment of National Service Personnel.
These efforts, the Authority noted, have prevented fraud attempts and saved over GH¢300 million within four years.
“The Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, and other key stakeholders have enormous evidence of the robust systems implemented by the NSA and the gains made over the period,” it added.
The NSA further indicated its commitment to technological advancements, such as the use of the Ghana Card, facial verification systems, and eligibility proofs from tertiary institutions, which have collectively eliminated ghost names from its system.
“The results of these measures have been overwhelming, effectively drawing curtains down on the presence of ghost names in the National Service system since 2021,” it stated.
In response to the allegations, the NSA’s Governing Board convened an emergency meeting on December 12, 2024. Following the meeting, the Board requested the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to conduct an independent investigation.
“Based on our assessment, we are unable to substantiate any viable rationale that will push individuals, groups, or institutions to peddle such allegations capable of tarnishing the hard-earned reputation of the Authority,” it noted.
The NSA indicated that it is committed to transparency and accountability, welcoming the petition submitted by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), publishers of The Fourth Estate, to the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
“We welcome this development and wish to assure the public of our full cooperation with any investigations to establish the facts and vindicate the integrity of the Authority,” it assured.
It called on the public to exercise restraint in their commentaries on the matter, cautioning against baseless accusations that could irreparably damage the reputations of individuals or the institution itself.
Read the full statement below:
JKB/MA
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