Mahama cancels sale of diplomatic properties in Nigeria, Zambia under Akufo-Addo government

In a recent statement to Parliament on March 29, 2025, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Foreign Minister, announced the cancellation of two transactions initiated by the previous Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, which involved the sale of Ghanaian diplomatic properties in Nigeria and Zambia.

Ablakwa, backed by President John Dramani Mahama, confirmed that efforts are currently underway to recover an illegal part payment related to one of the transactions. The individuals responsible for the deal, who are said to be on the run, will be located and held accountable.

“We mean it when we say no diplomatic property belonging to the people of Ghana would be sold under our watch,” said Ablakwa. He further clarified that all of Ghana’s diplomatic properties—both within the country and across the 71 diplomatic missions abroad—are strictly off-limits for sale.

The Foreign Minister emphasized that the principles of ORAL (Open, Responsible, Accountable Leadership), alongside the government’s commitment to preventing state capture and protecting national interest, will continue to guide decisions on foreign policy and national assets.

Ablakwa closed his remarks by affirming the government’s unwavering stance on safeguarding Ghana’s diplomatic properties, reiterating the message: “Hands off!”