On a recent episode of Joy FM's Newsfile, major issues dominating Ghana's national conversation were examined. These included the Economic and Organised Crime Office's (EOCO) investigation into Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah. The MP had voluntarily reported himself to EOCO after a High Court issued a warrant for his arrest and searches of his office and residence. The investigation involves alleged criminal conspiracy, financial loss to SIC Savings and Loans, money laundering, and tax-related offences.
The EOCO investigation into Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah has raised concerns among his lawyers and some members of the Minority. They have questioned aspects of his detention and the manner in which the investigation has been conducted. In response, EOCO stated it is working with the Attorney-General's Office to bring the Manhyia South MP before a weekend court following his voluntary surrender. The MP has been cooperating with investigators.
Another topic discussed on Newsfile was Ghana's growing concerns over drug trafficking. A series of major seizures involving consignments linked to Ghana has intensified the debate on how narcotics move through the country's ports. There are concerns that weaknesses in the system may be exploited by organised criminal networks. The 2025 Global Organized Crime Index reports that Ghanaian organised crime groups have become significant players in the global cocaine trade.
The Minority has called for greater scrutiny of the processes through which major narcotics consignments are inspected, cleared, and exported. Claims of possible political protection have also been raised, although such allegations remain contested and require evidence. The Index suggests that law-enforcement officials and civil-society stakeholders believe political protection by sections of government could explain declining cocaine seizures and reduced visibility of trafficking.
The ongoing teachers' strike was also a topic of discussion on Newsfile. Thousands of teachers are staying away from classrooms over demands including promotion arrears, automatic placement on new salary grades, the Deprived Area Allowance, and a new collective agreement. With negotiations between the government and teacher unions yet to produce a settlement, concerns are growing over the impact of the industrial action on the academic calendar.
In sports, Ghana is facing fresh questions about the direction of the sector. This follows the departure of Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz and the suspension of National Sports Authority Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah. Queiroz's exit comes after Ghana's difficult start to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. Ampofo Ankrah's suspension is linked to an ongoing investigation into an alleged World Cup visa facilitation arrangement, which he has denied.
The Newsfile discussion also touched on other related issues. Godfred Dame has questioned the two-night EOCO detention of Baffour Awuah over GH¢2.2m legal fees. The National Anti-Corruption Coalition (NACOC) has demanded tighter port controls to prevent Tema Harbour drug trafficking. The situation with Baffour Awuah and the various crises in Ghana's education and sports sectors continue to unfold.
Key points
- EOCO's investigation into Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah involves alleged criminal conspiracy and financial loss.
- Ghanaian organised crime groups have become significant players in the global cocaine trade.
- The ongoing teachers' strike is over demands including promotion arrears and a new collective agreement.
