Former Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, has denied any wrongdoing following the announcement by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) that he has been charged in connection with a GH₵280 million extortion and money laundering case.
In an interview with The Africa Report shortly after the OSP’s public statement, Dr. Hamid stated confidently:
“I have never solicited nor received any illegal payments in the performance of my duties. I welcome the opportunity to clear myself in court.”
On Tuesday, July 16, the OSP confirmed that Dr. Hamid and six others, along with three companies, face 25 charges, including:
• Extortion by a public officer
• Conspiracy to commit money laundering
• Money laundering
The alleged scheme—executed between 2022 and December 2024—reportedly involved Dr. Hamid, Jacob Kwamina Amuah (former Coordinator of the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund), and Wendy Newman, an NPA staff member.
According to the OSP, the trio abused their positions to illegally extract over GH₵280.5 million from petroleum transporters and oil marketing companies, under the guise of regulatory functions.
Despite the weight of the charges, Dr. Hamid remains confident that the judicial process will exonerate him. His public statement echoes his long-standing image as a principled public servant and academic.
The accused individuals and companies are expected to appear before the High Court (Criminal Division) in Accra for their pleas to be taken. A date is yet to be announced.
The OSP says the prosecution is part of its broader mission to fight corruption “without fear or favour”, urging citizens and institutions to report wrongdoing and stay vigilant.
Background:
Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid served as NPA CEO until early 2025. He previously held roles as Minister for Information and Minister for Inner-City Development
Post a Comment