The National Identification Authority (NIA) of Ghana has taken decisive action against staff members involved in alleged extortion during the free Ghana Card registration exercise for children aged six to 14 at Galaka in the Upper East Region. Six staff members have been arrested by the Bawku West District Police and are assisting with investigations. They were identified by parents of applicants as having demanded money before registering their children.
According to the NIA, the arrested staff members were part of a larger team responsible for the registration exercise. An internal review found that seven other members of the registration team were aware of the alleged misconduct but failed to report it, leading to the termination of their appointments. The NIA emphasized that registration must be conducted in accordance with approved procedures, and no staff member is authorised to demand unauthorised payments from applicants or their parents.
The disciplinary measures follow reports of alleged extortion during the recently concluded registration exercise. The NIA has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the registration process. The Authority stressed that it takes allegations of misconduct seriously and will continue to take appropriate disciplinary action to protect the integrity of its registration processes and ensure that the public receives services fairly and professionally.
The NIA has urged members of the public to report suspected misconduct through its official channels. This move aims to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure that the public has confidence in the registration process. The Authority's efforts to maintain integrity and transparency in its operations have been underscored by these recent actions.
The free Ghana Card registration exercise for children aged six to 14 was conducted in various regions, including the Upper East Region. The exercise aimed to provide Ghanaian children with a national identification card, which is essential for accessing various services and benefits. However, the alleged extortion by some staff members undermined the integrity of the exercise and raised concerns among the public.
The NIA's statement on the matter was signed by Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, Head of the NIA's Corporate Affairs Directorate. The Authority has assured the public that it will continue to work to prevent similar incidents and maintain the trust of the public in its operations. The recent actions demonstrate the NIA's commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
The six arrested staff members are currently assisting with investigations, and the NIA is working to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The Authority's efforts to address the issue have been welcomed by the public, who expect transparency and fairness in the registration process. The NIA's actions serve as a reminder that misconduct will not be tolerated and that the Authority is committed to serving the public with integrity.
Key points
- The NIA arrested six staff members and terminated the appointments of seven others over alleged extortion during the free Ghana Card registration exercise for children aged six to 14 at Galaka in the Upper East Region.
