The leadership of the Anchoring Democracy Advocacy Movement, in collaboration with the Nanlaamtaaba mining group in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region of Ghana, has called for the immediate arrest of former Upper East Regional Minister Hon. Stephen Yakubu. They allege that he misused a state account to receive funds from a Chinese company meant for small-scale miners, which he has failed to account for.
Addressing the media in Bolgatanga on February 14, 2025, Mr. Naabil Paul Yin, who read the press statement, urged security agencies to promptly arrest Stephen Yakubu, also known as Armstrong Akurugu, and thoroughly investigate the whereabouts of the substantial amount of money deposited into the state account of the Regional Coordinating Council.
“The immediate arrest of the former Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Stephen Yakubu, who is also known as Armstrong Akurugu, is essential due to his use of a state account to receive unaccounted funds from a Chinese company,” stated Mr. Yin.
Mr. John Yaro Zumah, a spokesman for the Nanlaamtaaba mining company, noted that they are awaiting the arrival of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team to report the matter concerning Yakubu’s alleged misuse of state funds. He expressed disappointment that the ORAL team has not yet visited the region, as they plan to present evidence and account numbers for further investigation.
“I have personally visited the Ghana Commercial Bank several times to inquire about the transactions linked to the former minister, but the bank manager has repeatedly denied my requests for information. I believe the ORAL committee would be better positioned to obtain the necessary details,” he said.
Mr. Zumah further stated that Yakubu acted as a mediator in the agreement with the Chinese company, which allegedly resulted in funds being deposited into the RCC account without proper disbursement to small-scale miners. “While he claims to have paid some miners, others have reported that they did not receive anything. We have not seen involvement from other stakeholders like Madam Paulina, Mark Owen Wayongo, or Prof. Avea in this matter. It appears he has taken all the funds for himself,” he added.
In response, former Upper East Regional Minister Stephen Yakubu asserted his willingness to cooperate with any investigation. He claimed that he has made significant contributions to the small-scale mining community in the Talensi District and deserves recognition for his efforts.
“I am available for any inquiry. I have done well for the small miners, and I expect that to be acknowledged. Security officials have investigated me on various issues related to mining in the region, and I have been cleared of any wrongdoing,” he stated. “I’m here; I’m not going anywhere. If they need me, they should call me.”
Source: mywordfmonline.com/Gaspard Ayuureneeya