OSP investigates alleged corruption at NPA, MIIF

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has launched investigations into alleged corruption at the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and the Mineral Income Investment Fund (MIIF). The probe focuses on suspected financial mismanagement and embezzlement involving key officials.

At a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, the OSP announced that it is investigating the alleged embezzlement of GHC1.3 billion from the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF) at the NPA. The individuals under investigation include the former Chief Executive Officer of NPA, Mustapha Abdul Hamid, as well as the Coordinator of the UPPF, Jacob Amoah. Two other NPA staff members, Freda Acheampong and Wendy Ashong Newman, have also been named in the investigation. The OSP stated that its inquiry seeks to uncover suspected corruption and corruption-related offences linked to the handling of the UPPF.

In a related development, the OSP has also commenced an investigation into the operations of the Mineral Income Investment Fund (MIIF). The inquiry focuses on payments related to Agyapa Royalties Limited, the small-scale mining incubation programme, the quarry value addition programme, and investments in Asante Gold Corporation. Other areas under scrutiny include the lithium-focused exploration and development project by Electrochem Ghana Limited, the Enchi Gold Project, and all other financial dealings by MIIF. The investigation also covers expenditures linked to the Chairman of the MIIF Board of Directors, operational funds, the purchase of land for office buildings, and various international publications funded by MIIF.

According to the OSP, two former officials and two serving officials of MIIF are under investigation for their roles in these alleged financial irregularities. The Special Prosecutor assured the public that further updates will be provided as the investigations progress.