The National Identification Authority (NIA) of Ghana has taken disciplinary action against staff members involved in alleged extortion during the free Ghana Card registration exercise for children aged six to 14. Six staff members were arrested by the Bawku West District Police following complaints from parents who claimed they were demanded money before registering their children. The arrests were made at the Galaka registration centre in the Upper East Region.
According to the NIA, the arrested individuals are currently assisting the police with investigations into the allegations. The Authority has also terminated the appointments of seven additional members of the registration team for allegedly knowing about the misconduct but failing to report it to the appropriate authorities. This decision was made after an internal review of the alleged extortion at the registration centre.
The NIA has reiterated that the Ghana Card registration exercise must be conducted strictly in accordance with approved procedures. The Authority emphasised that its personnel are not authorised to demand unauthorised payments from applicants or parents seeking to register their children. The registration exercise aims to provide eligible applicants with access to national identification services without improper financial demands.
The Authority has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing allegations of misconduct and taking appropriate disciplinary measures to safeguard the credibility and integrity of its registration operations. The NIA urged members of the public to report suspected extortion, abuse of office, or other forms of misconduct through its official reporting channels to enable prompt investigation and action.
The arrests and dismissals highlight the importance of accountability in the delivery of public services, especially programmes intended to expand access to national identification. The NIA's actions demonstrate its dedication to ensuring that Ghana Card registration services are delivered fairly, transparently, and professionally.
While the six arrested staff members remain subjects of police investigations, the allegations against them have not established criminal guilt. The outcome of the investigations will determine the next steps in the cases. The NIA's commitment to addressing misconduct and ensuring accountability in its operations is clear.
The NIA's efforts to address extortion and misconduct during the Ghana Card registration exercise are crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring that eligible applicants have access to national identification services without facing improper financial demands. The Authority's actions serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in public service delivery.
Key points
- The NIA arrested six staff members and dismissed seven others over alleged extortion during the free Ghana Card registration exercise for children.
