Josiah
The Attorney General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has revealed a large-scale fraud uncovered in the National Service Scheme (NSS) payroll system. The investigation found that thousands of fake names, known as “ghost names,” were used to steal money meant for service personnel.
Dr. Ayine explained at a press conference in Accra on Friday, June 13, 2025, that the fraud had been going on for several years. It involved top officials at the NSS, including district directors, payroll officers, and even the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
According to the Attorney General, about 81,885 ghost names were added to the payroll. This led to the illegal transfer of around GH¢548 million from government funds into the hands of corrupt officials and their accomplices.
These ghost names came with fake ID numbers and index numbers, and the system was deliberately manipulated to allow the illegal entries.
Dr. Ayine also said that some NSS executives, including the CEO, used some of the stolen money for personal gain.
In addition, it was discovered that before each service year, NSS directors would add large amounts of money to the payroll. This money was then secretly shared through ghost accounts. This made the fraud a regular and organized part of the system.
The Attorney General’s office has expressed serious concern over the involvement of senior officials and is taking steps to bring all those responsible to justice.
Source:Omanghana.com
