50 articles published on Baobab Pulse
Must ReadThe Government of Ghana has extended its condolences to the people of Dagbon following the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II. In a statement issued by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Monday, July 13, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama expressed sympathies to the Royal Family, the people of Dagbon, and Ghanaians. The late Yaa Naa was described as a traditional ruler whose leadership promoted peace and unity, playing a key role in bringing healing and reconciliation to the kingdom after years of conflict. The government highlighted his commitment to unity, stability, and the welfare of his people, which fostered development in Dagbon and strengthened the partnership between traditional authorities and the government. The statement paid tribute to his invaluable service to the nation, stating that his legacy of wisdom, leadership, and dedication to peace would continue to inspire future generations. News of the Yaa Naa's passing was announced on July 13, 2026.

Miracle Aboagye, a member of the NPP Communications Team, has been granted bail after his arrest by the Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO in connection with an alleged money laundering scheme. He was reportedly arrested at the Accra International Airport on July 12, 2026, over corruption-related allegations. Aboagye is accused of misappropriating, misapplying, diverting, and stealing public funds totaling GHยข55 million. According to a report and video sighted on July 13, 2026, he was granted bail in the amount of GHยข50 million with three sureties, two of whom must be justified. His lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, indicated that meeting the bail conditions that night would be challenging.
Must ReadHaruna Iddrisu, Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Tamale South, has expressed profound sadness over the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II. In a statement released on July 13, 2026, Iddrisu described the passing as a significant loss for the Dagbon Kingdom and Ghana. The death of Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II was officially announced on the same day by Kuga Naa Adam Abdulai II, Head of the Kingmakers, following customary rites at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi. Iddrisu paid tribute to the late monarch, acknowledging the historical foundations of the Dagbon Kingdom and commending Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II for fostering unity and peace within the region. He specifically highlighted the late King's achievement in restoring and implementing the rotational succession arrangement between the Andani and Abudu royal gates, calling it his greatest legacy. Iddrisu views the King's death as both a moment of grief and an opportunity to consolidate the progress made in promoting stability within the kingdom, anticipating a continued progressive rotation of leadership between the two gates.

Justin Kodua Frimpong, General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party NPP, has accused the government of using the arrest of former government officials to divert public attention during times of public pressure. Speaking during a protest by the NPP youth wing on Monday, July 13, 2026, he stated that the NPP would not be intimidated by these arrests, calling them government tactics. Kodua dismissed allegations by EOCO as โfrivolousโ and part of a campaign to tarnish the reputation of NPP members. He also criticized state institutions for arbitrary arrests and denying suspects access to lawyers, citing the case where a man was held from Saturday evening to Monday without legal counsel. Kodua cautioned government appointees that political power is temporary and they should be mindful of their actions. The Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO confirmed the arrest of Dennis Edward Aboagye in connection with investigations into alleged financial and procurement irregularities at the IMCCoD Secretariat, following a petition from the current Executive Secretary of IMCCoD. Aboagye is under investigation for conspiracy to steal and stealing, using public office for profit, causing financial loss to the state, dissipation of public funds, defrauding by false pretenses, money laundering, and other suspected offenses.

When a criminal suspect is located in another country, security agencies have two main options for their return: extradition or rendition. Extradition is a formal legal process governed by treaties and domestic laws, involving formal requests, reviews by authorities, court proceedings, and opportunities for the suspect to challenge the request. This process can be lengthy, taking months or even years. Rendition, conversely, involves transferring a suspect outside the traditional extradition process, often through cooperation between security agencies or immigration authorities, and may not require a full judicial process in the country of removal. Agencies may opt for rendition due to its speed, the absence of an extradition treaty, national security concerns, immigration or deportation violations, and close cooperation between law enforcement agencies. While extradition offers stronger procedural safeguards and is the internationally recognized mechanism for ordinary criminal offenses, rendition or deportation-based transfers are used when domestic laws permit, especially if a suspect has breached immigration laws, no extradition treaty exists, or the suspect consents to return. Rendition has faced scrutiny from human rights organizations due to concerns about due process and potential for arbitrary detention, particularly in cases of "extraordinary rendition."
Must ReadThe Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO has announced the arrest of Dennis Edward Aboagye, former Executive Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation IMCCoD, and Gerald Appiah, former Accountant of the same institution. They are being investigated for suspected misappropriation, misapplication, diversion, and theft of approximately GHยข55 million in public funds. Gerald Appiah has voluntarily started returning funds connected to the alleged crimes, though EOCO emphasizes that these repayments do not conclude the investigation or absolve any suspect. The arrests stem from an investigation initiated by a petition from the current IMCCoD Executive Secretary, following a forensic audit covering August 1, 2022, to February 2, 2025. Both individuals face charges including conspiracy to steal, stealing, using public office for profit, causing financial loss to the state, dissipation of public funds, defrauding by false pretenses, and money laundering. Aboagye is expected to be granted bail, and Appiah is completing bail conditions for release as investigations continue.
Must ReadDennis Miracles Aboagye, a communications team member of the New Patriotic Party NPP, is currently under investigation by the Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO. The investigation and his arrest are linked to alleged misappropriation, misapplication, diversion, and theft of public funds totaling approximately GHยข55 million. These allegations stem from his tenure as the former Executive Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation IMCCoD.
Must ReadThe Community Focus Foundation Ghana CFF-Ghana has urged the government to conduct an independent and transparent investigation into the export of approximately 320 kilograms of methamphetamine from Ghana to Australia. The drugs were reportedly concealed in charcoal, and the call for an investigation follows the arrest of the alleged ringleader of the drug trafficking syndicate. CFF-Ghana stated that this incident has brought Ghana under international scrutiny and could damage its reputation. The organization recommended strengthening anti-narcotics surveillance at Ghana's ports, airports, and land borders through modern detection technologies, improved intelligence sharing, and enhanced institutional accountability. CFF-Ghana also called for any officials from security services, customs administration, port authorities, or other state institutions found to be involved to face the full force of the law, regardless of their rank or political affiliation. The Foundation reiterated its dedication to transparency, accountability, and stronger governance in combating drug trafficking.
Must ReadFelicia Adjei, Member of Parliament for Kintampo South and a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, has completed a five-day working visit to Libya. The purpose of her visit was to engage with Libyan authorities and gather information regarding the challenges faced by Ghanaian irregular migrants, particularly those from the Bono East and Bono Regions. These migrants often use dangerous routes in search of employment and better economic opportunities. During her visit, Adjei met with members of the Ghanaian community who shared experiences of unemployment, lack of legal documentation, poor working conditions, exploitation, limited healthcare access, and the constant threat of arrest and detention. Migrants reported physical abuse, human trafficking, extortion, and forced labor, urging others not to take illegal routes without proper documents. Libya serves as both a destination and transit country for migrants from Ghana and other sub-Saharan African nations, with many attempting to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. These journeys are often perilous, involving smugglers and exposing migrants to dehydration, hunger, violence, and abandonment. International organizations have documented severe human rights violations against migrants in Libya. The International Organization for Migration assisted 1,597 Ghanaian migrants in returning from Libya in 2024, and over 8,000 have received voluntary return support since 2017. Adjei held discussions with senior Libyan officials, includ
Must ReadThe passing of Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, the Overlord of the Dagbon Traditional Area, has highlighted his pivotal role in restoring peace after a 16-year chieftaincy dispute. Enskinned on January 18, 2019, he ascended to the throne following extensive mediation efforts. His reign focused on reconciliation, stability, and rebuilding trust within the kingdom, which had been in turmoil since violent clashes in Yendi in April 2002. These clashes led to the death of Yaa Naa Yakubu Andani II and 29 others, prompting a state of emergency declared by President John Agyekum Kufuor. The conflict between the Andani and Abudu royal gates left Dagbon without an overlord for over 16 years. A breakthrough came through the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, led by the late Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, which developed a roadmap for performing the funerals of the late Mahamadu Abdulai IV and Yaa Naa Yakubu Andani II. Yaa Naa Abukari II consistently urged peaceful coexistence and dialogue, consolidating the peace achieved through mediation. He also worked to strengthen traditional governance by championing amendments to the Dagbon Constitution and oversaw development initiatives, including the redevelopment of the Gbewaa Palace. His legacy is one of reconciliation, stability, and hope, marking a new chapter in Dagbon's history.

The camp of former Vice President and New Patriotic Party presidential candidate, Mahamudu Bawumia, has achieved a dominant victory in the party's constituency executive elections in the Ashanti Region. Candidates aligned with Bawumia secured an estimated 92 percent of the newly elected executive positions. The elections, held over Saturday and Sunday, saw pro-Bawumia candidates win decisively in most constituencies, strengthening his influence in the NPP's traditional stronghold. Even in instances where a perceived Bawumia-aligned candidate lost, the winning candidate was also considered a supporter, ensuring the constituency remained within Bawumia's camp. Some constituencies saw complete sweeps by pro-Bawumia candidates, while others recorded at least 70 percent of executive slots for his supporters. Only about eight percent of the new executives had previously campaigned for other presidential hopefuls like Kennedy Agyapong or Bryan Acheampong, though some have since declared support for Bawumia. This outcome is viewed as a significant boost for Bawumia's political standing and is expected to reinforce his control over the party's grassroots structures as the NPP reorganizes for the 2028 general elections.
Must ReadIsaac Obour, a US-based Ghanaian fraud examiner, has warned that recent extraditions of Ghanaian nationals for romance scams, wire fraud, and money laundering are damaging the country's international reputation. He stated that while Ghana has systems and tools to detect illicit activities, enforcement and utilization need significant improvement. Obour noted that Ghana's financial systems are robust, with compliance software capable of flagging high-level financial crimes, but he admitted that some officials are complicit due to financial kickbacks. He advised banks to conduct enhanced due diligence on large foreign inflows, especially when they contradict known economic activities, and to remain vigilant against financial crimes. Obour also called on law enforcement to conduct thorough "lifestyle audits" on individuals displaying sudden, unexplainable wealth, emphasizing that this should be done through interrogation rather than a "Rambo style." He lamented that these high-profile extraditions undermine investor confidence and the reputation of legitimate Ghanaian businesses globally. Obour urged law enforcement to intensify efforts against scammers and reminded the public that online scams leave digital footprints. He also advised the youth to pursue legitimate work and called on the government to create an economic environment with sustainable jobs to deter cybercrime. Commenting on the Abu Trica case, Obour clarified that extradition does not imply guilt, as suspects are
Must ReadYaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, the Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, has died after serving on the throne for seven years. He became the 41st Yaa Naa in January 2019 following the successful implementation of the Dagbon Peace Roadmap, which ended a protracted chieftaincy conflict. Born into the Dagbon royal family at Mion, he was the son of Yaa Naa Mahama II. Before ascending the Dagbon throne, he served as the chief of Kpunkpono and later Savelugu. His significant achievements include restoring peace to Dagbon, reuniting the Abudu and Andani royal gates, and ushering in a period of stability. He launched the Dagbon Development Fund in 2021 to mobilize resources for socio-economic advancement and initiated a review of the Dagbon Constitution in 2020. On March 4, 2023, he cut the sod for the reconstruction of the Gbewaa Palace. Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II is remembered for promoting peace, unity, and development, leaving a legacy that transformed the Dagbon Kingdom.

Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, a Ghanaian media personality and New Patriotic Party NPP parliamentary aspirant for Afigya Sekyere East, was reportedly arrested on Sunday, July 12, 2026, and spent the night in police custody. Videos circulating on social media show an injured Afrifa-Mensah, with visible bloodstains, being escorted by police officers to the Mampong Divisional Police Station in handcuffs. His arrest followed violence during the NPP Afigya Sekyere East Constituency executive elections in the Ashanti Region. Afrifa-Mensah's campaign team alleges he and supporters were assaulted and shot by police while attempting to serve a court notice. Blogger Dek360 reported that chaos erupted when Afrifa-Mensah tried to present a court injunction to halt the elections. The campaign team further claims that the Chief of Agric Nzema, Nana Nkansah Buadu, and some constituency officials printed their own ballot papers and prepared electoral materials to proceed with a suspended election, despite directives from the NPP National Steering Committee and a High Court injunction in Kumasi. The NPP National Steering Committee had directed the suspension of the Afigya Sekyere East Constituency Executive Committee elections on July 6, 2026, pending a court matter. Afrifa-Mensah's team stated he went to the election center to verify the situation and notify officials about the injunction and party directive, where he and supporters were allegedly attacked and arrested, sustaining gunshot injurie

Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a New Patriotic Party NPP communications team member and former Executive Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation, has reportedly been arrested by the Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO at the Accra International Airport. The arrest, which occurred on Sunday, July 12, 2026, upon his arrival from the United Kingdom, is linked to alleged corruption-related offenses. Multiple reports and posts from NPP members, including Kwesi Botchway Jnr, indicate that EOCO is investigating allegations of financial mismanagement during Aboagye's tenure as Executive Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation. The reported arrest took place just hours after Aboagye announced his intention to contest for the position of National Communications Director of the NPP. NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong stated that Aboagye's lawyers have been denied access to him and that no formal charges have been brought. Kodua described the situation as an act of intimidation. As of the time of reporting, EOCO has not issued an official statement confirming the arrest, the specific allegations, or the NPP's claims regarding access to Aboagye. Prior to his role at the IMCC, Aboagye served as Municipal Chief Executive for Akuapem North and as a presidential staffer.
Must ReadGhana's opposition New Patriotic Party NPP has called for the immediate release of Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a prominent party figure, following his arrest by the Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO with assistance from the Ghana Immigration Service. The NPP describes the arrest as political intimidation, noting that Aboagye's legal team and family have been denied access to him, and his location remains undisclosed without formal charges. Aboagye, a vocal critic of the current administration, had recently announced his candidacy for a Director of Communications position within the NPP. The party leadership condemned the detention, arguing that state institutions are being used to silence dissent and that denying legal representation violates Article 142 of the 1992 Constitution. The NPP has issued an ultimatum for Aboagye's unconditional release or his processing before a court, demanding an end to what they term politically motivated arrests against their members. The party warned state security agencies that public institutions outlast governments and urged its supporters to remain calm and united.
Must ReadThe United Kingdom has updated its visa requirements, now mandating nationals from 33 African countries to obtain a visa before entering or transiting through the country. This change affects citizens from countries such as Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and others. The updated policy requires individuals from these nations to secure the appropriate UK visa prior to travel, even if they are only passing through. This measure is part of the UK government's ongoing review of immigration and border control procedures, aimed at strengthening entry protocols and ensuring compliance with its visa policies. Travelers from the listed countries are advised to check the latest requirements and apply for necessary visas before making travel arrangements to prevent disruptions. The UK continues to be a significant destination for African travelers for various purposes, including tourism, education, business, and family visits.
Must ReadThe Commonwealth of The Bahamas is set to welcome 300 Ghanaian teachers this year as part of a new cooperation agreement with Ghana. This initiative, announced by Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, aims to strengthen educational ties and expand labor mobility between the two nations. The agreement follows negotiations during Minister Ablakwa's visit to The Bahamas, where he represented President John Dramani Mahama at the countryโs 53rd Independence Anniversary celebrations. Minister Ablakwa conveyed President Mahamaโs appreciation to the Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Philip Edward Davis. This deployment marks the first phase of a broader education cooperation initiative, building on an existing partnership that involves Ghanaian health workers. Bahamian authorities have reportedly expressed satisfaction with the performance of Ghanaian nurses, which has encouraged the expansion of the partnership to other sectors. Minister Ablakwa noted the historical and ancestral connections between Ghana and The Bahamas, emphasizing Ghana's commitment to diplomatic engagements that create opportunities for its citizens and strengthen international partnerships.

Supreme Court Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei has expressed approval for Ghana's newly passed Community Service Bill, advocating that minor offenders, particularly those driven by hunger or desperation, should not automatically face imprisonment. Speaking on GHOne TV from a criminology perspective, Justice Adjei stated that custodial sentences are not suitable for all offenses, especially those without violence or serious harm. He highlighted that incarcerating individuals for petty theft, such as stealing plantains or GHยข100 due to hunger, burdens the state financially without addressing the core issue. Justice Adjei suggested that courts should consider alternatives like community service, educational programs, or rehabilitative measures, allowing offenders to remain productive members of society. While acknowledging potential reservations from human rights advocates, he maintained that community-based punishments are more beneficial for minor offenders than incarceration. He emphasized that individuals convicted of petty crimes can contribute to society while serving their sentences. Justice Adjei confirmed that the Community Service Bill applies only to minor offenses, with serious and violent crimes still subject to custodial sentences under existing law.

One person was reportedly shot in the leg following a confrontation between residents and a joint team of military and police officers in Kyebi, Abuakwa South Municipality, Eastern Region. The security team, believed to be from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat NAIMOS, was conducting an operation at a mining site. Reports indicate that a group of youth involved in mining activities blocked an access road to prevent the security personnel from entering. The youth accused the security team of selective enforcement, alleging that other mining locations were bypassed before their site was targeted. The injured individual is receiving treatment at Kibi Government Hospital.
BreakingUS Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has died following a brief and sudden illness. His office released a statement confirming his death on Saturday evening and requested privacy for his family. Senator Graham was chairman of the Senate Budget Committee and was seeking a fifth six-year Senate term in November. He was a prominent figure in the Senate, known for his contributions to defense and international affairs. Emergency personnel reportedly responded to a cardiac arrest call at his Capitol Hill home on Saturday night.

Ghanaian national Frederick Kumi, also known as Abu Trica, has been extradited to the United States to face charges related to an alleged $8 million romance fraud scheme. US authorities accuse Kumi of being part of a criminal network that used artificial intelligence to create false identities and target older Americans on social media and dating platforms. The indictment states that the fraudsters built trust through extensive conversations before requesting money for urgent medical needs, travel, or investments. Kumi, who posted online as Abu Trica and amassed nearly 100,000 Instagram followers, is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering, and other offenses. Prosecutors allege he worked with associates to distribute funds from the US to Ghana and other locations. Kumi's lawyer, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, stated that Kumi was flown to the US before a challenge to the extradition order in a Ghanaian court was resolved, though Ghana's attorney general, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, reportedly disputed this, stating the challenge had been dismissed. If convicted, Kumi faces up to 20 years in prison. The scheme allegedly defrauded victims of over $8 million between April 2023 and late 2025.
Must ReadArgentina and Switzerland are set to compete in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals at Kansas City Stadium. Argentina advanced to the last eight after a dramatic stoppage-time victory over Egypt. Switzerland secured their spot by defeating Algeria and Colombia, marking their first World Cup quarterfinal appearance since 1954. Argentina aims for a third consecutive win against Switzerland in the World Cup as they strive to keep their title defense alive and secure a place in the semifinals.

Three individuals have been arrested and one person injured following a disruption at the New Patriotic Party NPP Bantama Constituency election held at the Kumasi Cultural Centre. A group of heavily built men reportedly stormed the venue, destroying electoral materials including the ballot box, ballot papers, tables, and chairs, which halted the voting process. The arrested suspects include the constituency organiser, Shaibu Bamba, the Adoato polling station chairman, identified as Abu, and a third individual. The incident occurred shortly after the Ashanti Regional Police Commander's departure from the center. The election, involving 1,218 delegates, was already facing controversy due to an injunction secured by three party members over the removal of their names from the voter album. Consequently, the Electoral Commission declined to supervise, leading the party to conduct the poll independently. The violence unfolded during this party-led voting. The suspects are at the Ashanti Regional Police Command for questioning, and the injured person is receiving emergency treatment at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. Police have designated the election venue as a crime scene and initiated an investigation.