John Mahama suspends NSA boss Yaw Ampofo Ankrah over visa scandal

President John Dramani Mahama has suspended the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, following serious allegations of visa racketeering. The suspension is directly linked to fraudulent activities surrounding Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to a suspension letter issued to the Director-General, Mr. Ankrah is required to step aside immediately to allow for a thorough investigation into unauthorized financial transactions and reported misconduct within the authority.

Investigations into the matter have revealed an intricate network of contractors and sub-contractors who were allegedly used to recruit prospective travellers. Some individuals reportedly paid as much as $15,000 for visas that were never secured. Fresh details suggest that these fees were divided among various intermediaries, with specific claims emerging that certain officials received payouts of $1,500. The scandal has prompted a wider look into how the NSA handled applications for the upcoming tournament.

Pius Enam Hadzide, a former Deputy Sports Minister, has raised further concerns regarding the institutional structure at the NSA. He questioned the establishment of a specific secretariat and several appointments that he claims do not align with the authority’s official framework. Mr. Hadzide is demanding full accountability for the controversy, citing documentation that reportedly supports claims of professional misconduct and financial irregularities. He noted that the current situation requires clear answers regarding who authorized these recruitment processes.

The Ghana Police Service is currently conducting an investigation into the racketeering ring to identify all parties involved in the scheme. This administrative action by President Mahama reflects a commitment to addressing corruption within the sports sector as the country prepares for major international events. Mr. Ankrah’s suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of the police probe and any subsequent disciplinary or legal proceedings.