Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has strongly refuted accusations made by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa regarding state capture and the sale of public lands and properties by the Akufo-Addo administration.
In recent revelations, Mr. Ablakwa disclosed that certain state assets, such as the DuBois Center in Accra, had been leased for 50 years to private individuals with political connections for redevelopment. However, Mr. Jinapor has denied these claims, labeling them as a desperate attempt to tarnish the government’s reputation.
During an appearance on JoyNews Super Morning Show, Mr. Jinapor expressed his willingness to collaborate to protect the public interest but dismissed the allegations of state capture and land looting. He emphasized the need for a productive and constructive conversation about the protection and management of the country’s public lands.
In response to Mr. Ablakwa’s concerns about occupants of Roman Ridge Flats facing eviction by private developers, Mr. Jinapor clarified that there was no lease created for the DuBois property, according to the records he possesses.
Despite Mr. Jinapor’s reassurances, Mr. Ablakwa maintains that state capture is a real issue that must be addressed. He highlighted the plight of Roman Ridge Flat occupants who were informed of their impending eviction due to the Accra redevelopment policy.
Mr. Ablakwa called for a national discussion on state capture to prevent the dissipation of state lands and ensure transparency in the management of public assets.
