The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, has expressed deep concern over the pervasive corruption that plagued Ghana between 2022 and 2024. Speaking at the 2026 Asogli Te Za celebration, he noted that the period was marked by extreme desperation endured by Ghanaians, with many preferring xenophobic conditions abroad to economic hardship at home. This desperation drove some citizens to extreme measures, including seeking xenophobic lives in countries like South Africa.
Togbe Afede highlighted the dire consequences of the economic hardship, citing a significant increase in suicide rates. In 2024 alone, about 134 suicides were recorded, while the first half of 2025 saw an even bigger upsurge, with 175 cases reported. He linked part of the desperation to losses suffered under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) introduced to salvage the economy as a result of excessive borrowing by the previous administration.
The overlord of the Asogli State criticized the previous government officials for awarding scholarships meant for needy students to themselves and their family members. He described this act as disgraceful, noting that some beneficiaries even included their spouses and children on the scholarship. This abuse of power and corruption has contributed to the country's development challenges.
Togbe Afede expressed worry over the fact that some people defended such acts of corruption. He emphasized the role of honesty and respect for truth as critical instruments in the fight against corruption. The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State made these remarks during the 2026 Asogli Te Za celebration, which also marked the 23rd anniversary of his ascension as Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State.
The Asogli Te Za celebration, which took place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, provided a platform for Togbe Afede to reflect on the country's challenges and the need for collective action to address them. He called for a renewed commitment to fighting corruption and promoting good governance. The event was reported by TV3 Ghana.
According to Togbe Afede, the consequences of corruption are far-reaching and have contributed to the country's economic challenges. He noted that the situation has driven some citizens to seek alternative solutions, including xenophobic lives abroad. The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the country's development challenges.
Togbe Afede's remarks have sparked a renewed debate on the need for accountability and transparency in government. The issue of scholarship abuse by previous government officials has raised concerns about the need for effective oversight mechanisms to prevent such abuses. The government has been urged to take concrete steps to address the issue and ensure that scholarships are awarded to needy students.
Key points
- Togbe Afede XIV criticizes previous government officials for taking scholarships meant for needy students.
- Corruption is a major stumbling block to Ghana's development, according to Togbe Afede XIV.
- The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State calls for honesty and respect for truth in the fight against corruption.
