Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairman Freddie Blay has made serious allegations against the Ghanaian government, claiming recent demolition exercises in Accra were politically motivated and targeted his family. Blay stated that properties belonging to two of his sons were destroyed, including the Polo Beach Club along the La beachfront. He alleged that the demolitions were ordered by President John Mahama.
The Polo Beach Club demolition occurred on October 2, 2026, with personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces' 48 Engineer Regiment and the Ghana Police Service carrying out the operation. Blay questioned the military's involvement, arguing that such a deployment required authorization from the highest office in the land. He described the situation as "dangerous."
The Presidency has offered a different account of events, with Deputy Chief of Staff Stan Dogbe stating that the operation was conducted under National Security supervision, in response to a formal request from the Labadi Beach Hotel. The hotel had raised concerns about nearby beachfront structures affecting its safety and reputation.
According to Dogbe, the demolition was distinct from a separate government exercise focused on flood mitigation, which was simultaneously underway in various parts of Greater Accra. This exercise aimed to address the city's recurring flood crisis, following devastating floods on June 29 that affected several communities.
Blay's allegations have added tension to an already contentious period of demolition activity in Accra, with questions mounting over which structures are being targeted and why. The issue has sparked concerns about the government's motivations and the impact on affected families and businesses.
Heavy security was deployed at Laboma Beach ahead of a planned demolition exercise targeting unauthorized structures in Accra. The operation, led by the Greater Accra Regional Security Council, aims to address the city's flood crisis by removing structures obstructing waterways.
The demolition exercises have raised concerns about the government's approach to urban development and the treatment of property owners. Freddie Blay's allegations have added a political dimension to the issue, with implications for the government's relations with the NPP and other stakeholders.
Key points
- Freddie Blay alleges that the Ghanaian government targeted his family in recent Accra demolitions.
- The Presidency claims that the demolitions were carried out in response to concerns from the Labadi Beach Hotel and for flood mitigation efforts.
- The issue has sparked concerns about the government's motivations, urban development, and the treatment of property owners.
