NPP Condemns Arrest of Former NAFCO Boss as Political Harassment

NPP Alleges Political Persecution in NAFCO Chief's Airport Arrest

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has accused the government of abusing state power following the arrest of former National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) Chief Executive Officer Hanan Abdul-Wahab Aludiba at Accra International Airport on Saturday night. NPP Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed told JoyNews' The Pulse that the party views the arrest as politically motivated harassment rather than legitimate law enforcement.

Mr Aludiba was detained whilst attempting to travel to the United Kingdom, despite having obtained High Court permission to leave the country. Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem Sai said the arrest followed intelligence that Mr Aludiba allegedly tried to withdraw funds from a frozen bank account before departing. However, Mr Mohammed questioned the logic of this charge, arguing that a frozen account prevents any withdrawals, rendering the allegation baseless.

"If the account is already frozen, the person has no access to the funds," Mr Mohammed stated. "So what is the justification for arresting someone for attempting to withdraw from an account they cannot access? This is clearly about frustration and persecution."

The NPP further claimed Mr Aludiba's travel was primarily for medical treatment, not to escape justice. Mr Mohammed asserted the government was attempting to prosecute the former NAFCO boss excessively. Mr Aludiba is currently standing trial on charges of theft and causing financial loss to the state, and remains in custody pending further proceedings.