Former NSS Director Denies Involvement in Ghost Names Scandal

Former NSS Director Mustapha Ussif denies allegations of involvement in a GH¢50 million ghost names scandal. Ussif asserts his readiness to account for his tenure and cooperate with investigations. The scheme involved 81,885 ghost names and has raised public outcry for reform in Ghana’s payroll system.

Mustapha Ussif, a Member of Parliament for Yagaba-Kubori and the former Director of the National Service Scheme (NSS), has firmly denied any involvement in a scandal that has recently captured public attention. This scandal, which involves GH¢50 million in alleged fraudulent activities, was revealed by the Attorney General. Ussif led the NSS from 2017 until 2021 and is prepared to defend his actions, even in a court setting if it comes to that.

In addressing the accusations, Ussif expressed confidence in his conduct during his tenure, stating, “I served diligently during my time at the NSS and have nothing to hide.” He emphasized his readiness to welcome scrutiny, asserting his intent to cooperate fully with any investigations that may take place.

The ghost names scandal has been characterized by Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine as a “nationwide criminal enterprise.” It involves the presence of 81,885 ghost names on the NSS payroll, raising immense concerns. It is alleged that senior officials, including district directors and payroll officers, fabricated identities in order to misappropriate funds that should have gone to actual national service personnel.

Dr. Ayine highlighted that this fraudulent operation may have cost the state upwards of GH¢50 million per month. It appears that this scheme was methodically organized, with fraudulent payroll entries made ahead of every service year. There are claims that these misappropriated funds were funneled into private accounts, with some resources reportedly being used to bribe a sitting Member of Parliament in 2024 in an attempt to stifle media coverage.

Ussif is now calling for calm during this complex investigation while reiterating his commitment to transparency within the system. The emergence of this scandal has rekindled discussions on the urgent need for reforms across Ghana’s public payroll management systems, a movement aimed at preventing any future occurrences of such fraud.

In summary, Mustapha Ussif has openly denied his involvement in the alleged ghost names scandal that has caused significant concern regarding the management of the National Service Scheme’s payroll. As the investigation unfolds, Ussif remains committed to transparency and accountability. The situation serves as a crucial reminder of the need for reforms to secure Ghana’s public finances against fraudulent practices.

Original Source: www.newsghana.com.gh