The National Service Authority (NSA) has uncovered widespread irregularities within its payroll system, leading to the flagging of 8,105 personnel nationwide.
Out of the total number flagged, 1,840 individuals have been temporarily suspended as investigations continue by relevant security and investigative agencies.
Addressing the media at a press briefing on Monday, December 15, Director-General of the NSA, Ruth Dela Seddoh, revealed that the irregularities were traced to discrepancies between officially graduated students and lists submitted to the Authority by certain tertiary institutions.
According to her, the investigations identified three institutions at the centre of the scheme: the University of Development Studies (UDS), Ghana Communication Technology University, and Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development.
“When we compared the number of officially graduated students from these institutions with the names submitted to us, we realised that some schools were complicit in what appears to be a well-coordinated cartel,” she stated.
She described the findings as shocking, noting that the comprehensive investigations exposed serious payroll manipulation, resulting in the flagging of 8,105 individuals.
“As a result of these discoveries, 1,840 individuals have been completely suspended pending the conclusion of further investigations by the security agencies,” she added.
Ms. Seddoh also disclosed that 10 staff members from the affected institutions have been arrested and are currently assisting with investigations.
Responding to public concerns about the closure of the National Service portal after two deadline extensions, the Director-General explained that the decision was deliberate and necessary.
She said the shutdown was intended to allow for reposting, proper validation of records, and physical verification of personnel at their assigned stations to eliminate ghost names and fraudulent registrations.
“The timeline was not arbitrary,” she emphasized. “It was part of a carefully structured process to ensure accurate deployment records, confirm physical presence, and enable timely payment of allowances to duly verified personnel.”
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Benjamin Sackey
