The Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Security and Counter-Terrorism, Emmanuel Kotin, has called for urgent and practical action to address the growing threat of violent extremism in West Africa, warning that Ghana must move beyond rhetoric and confront the challenge head-on.

Speaking on the security situation in the sub-region via a zoom interview on Kessben TV’s Digest show, Mr. Kotin questioned whether Ghana is adequately prepared for the spread of Sahel extremism, stressing that the country cannot afford complacency.

He welcomed the recent statement issued by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) saying it signals the need to shift from identifying security problems to implementing more effective counter-terrorism measures.

According to him, the security threats posed by Sahel extremist attacks and piracy in the Gulf of Guinea are fundamentally different and require distinct strategies rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
“Security is very expensive. We must stop the talk and tackle the situation head-on,” he said.

Mr. Kotin further urged policymakers to focus on the underlying conditions that fuel insecurity, arguing that addressing the root causes is essential to achieving lasting peace.
He also emphasized the importance of understanding the geopolitical dynamics shaping the region, noting that with the right processes and coordinated action, the security challenges can be effectively managed.
His remarks come amid growing concerns over the expansion of extremist activities across the Sahel and increasing calls for Ghana to strengthen its preparedness against emerging regional security threats.

President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in Dr. Pamela Graham as the Auditor-General of the Republic of Ghana, charging her to uphold the highest standards of independence, integrity and professionalism in safeguarding the nation’s public finances.

Administering the oath of office at the Presidency in Accra, President Mahama described the ceremony as more than a constitutional formality, saying it reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the Constitution, the rule of law, transparency, accountability and sound public financial management.
He said the Office of the Auditor-General occupies a vital place in Ghana’s constitutional architecture as one of the principal guardians of the public purse.

“The Auditor-General’s work extends far beyond auditing accounts. It strengthens confidence in public institutions, promotes prudent financial management, deters waste and corruption, and assures Parliament and the people of Ghana that public resources are being managed responsibly,” the President said.

President Mahama noted that in a developing economy where every public investment must deliver measurable benefits, the Auditor-General plays a critical role in strengthening governance, improving investor confidence and reinforcing public trust in state institutions.
Congratulating Dr. Graham on her appointment, the President expressed confidence in her ability to discharge her constitutional mandate with competence, impartiality and courage.

“As you assume office today, you do so not in service of any government, political party or individual, but in service to the Constitution and the people of Ghana,” he stated.
He stressed that the independence of the Auditor-General’s office must always be protected and exercised responsibly, professionally and fairly, adding that the office must be guided solely by facts, evidence and the law.

President Mahama also paid tribute to the outgoing Auditor-General for his dedicated service and contribution to strengthening public accountability in Ghana, wishing him good health and success in his future endeavours.

The President reiterated that his government’s economic recovery and national development agenda depended on strong institutions capable of ensuring prudent management of public resources.

He said initiatives aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, improving domestic revenue mobilisation, implementing the 24-hour economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme, expanding social investments and accelerating infrastructure development all required transparency and fiscal discipline.

“Every ministry, department, agency, metropolitan, municipal and district assembly, state-owned enterprise and public official must recognise that accountability is not optional. It is a constitutional obligation,” President Mahama said.

He pledged continued government support for the Ghana Audit Service through investments in modern audit technologies, digital systems, capacity building and institutional reforms to strengthen its effectiveness.

The President further urged all public institutions to cooperate fully with the Auditor-General and implement audit recommendations promptly, stressing that audit reports should serve as practical management tools to improve governance, strengthen internal controls, eliminate waste and enhance public sector efficiency.

Addressing Dr. Graham directly, President Mahama urged her to preserve, strengthen and modernise the legacy of the Audit Service while remaining faithful to the values of integrity, impartiality, professionalism and excellence.

“The strength of a democracy is measured not only by those who govern, but also by the institutions that hold government accountable,” he said, adding that Ghana’s responsibility was to leave behind institutions that were stronger, more transparent and more effective for future generations.

An Accra High Court has ruled in favour of extraditing Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, widely known as Abu Trica, to the United States after dismissing his application to block the transfer.

According to reports, the court’s decision effectively clears the way for his extradition following ongoing legal proceedings linked to criminal charges filed in the US.

His lawyer, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, confirmed the development, stating that he was informed while out of the country that the court had upheld the extradition request. He noted that the judge granted approval for the process to proceed.

Barker-Vormawor added that the legal team intends to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court in an attempt to challenge the ruling and halt the extradition.

He also shared on social media that the case had been fast-tracked, suggesting further legal action would follow.

Abu Trica had earlier filed an application through his lawyers seeking to stop his extradition to the United States. His legal team also previously challenged a ruling from the Gbese District Court, which had approved the extradition request.

Case background

US authorities have indicted Abu Trica over allegations of involvement in a romance fraud scheme that reportedly defrauded elderly victims of more than $8 million.

Unsealed documents from the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio allege that he was part of a criminal network targeting senior citizens through online romance scams since 2023.

Prosecutors claim the group used artificial intelligence tools to create fake identities, build online relationships, and manipulate victims into sending money for fabricated emergencies such as medical bills, travel expenses, and investment opportunities.

Investigators further allege that once funds were received, Abu Trica helped transfer and distribute the money to associates in Ghana and other locations.

He faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence of up to 20 years.