By Enoch 
Ghost Names Found.
Gifty Oware-Mensah, the former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), has been released from the custody of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).
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Her detention was connected to an ongoing investigation into an extensive payroll fraud scheme within the NSA involving “ghost names.” The news has drawn widespread public attention, sparking debates on financial mismanagement and corruption in public institutions.
Background of the Scandal
The National Service Scheme (NSS) payroll fraud, dubbed the “ghost names” scandal, stands out as one of the largest financial fraud cases in recent years. Investigations uncovered that thousands of fictitious names had been added to the NSS payroll, enabling illicit withdrawals of public funds.
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The fraudulent scheme allegedly resulted in a financial loss of over 2.2 billion cedis and was linked to forged student index numbers from prominent institutions like KNUST and UDS.
This fraudulent activity is believed to have spanned several years, beginning as far back as 2018. The systemic scale of the scandal has exposed glaring weaknesses in oversight and accountability at the NSS, tarnishing the reputation of one of Ghana’s key national institutions.
Gifty Oware-Mensah’s Detention and Release
Gifty Oware-Mensah, an influential figure who held a key leadership role at the NSS, was detained on March 7, 2025, after returning to Ghana on March 5. Allegations surfaced that she may have fled the country during the height of the investigation, though her return dispelled those claims.
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Her arrest and subsequent release on March 8 followed hours of questioning by the NIB. While the details of her exact involvement in the fraud remain unclear, investigators have indicated that she cooperated during her interrogation. It is anticipated that she may be called for further questioning as the inquiry deepens.
The Government’s Response
The government’s reaction to the scandal has been swift and decisive. President John Dramani Mahama issued a directive for a thorough investigation into the NSS’s payroll systems. This move came after auditors discovered a staggering 81,885 ghost names on the payroll, shedding light on the depth of the corruption within the scheme.
Efforts to root out those responsible are underway, with a clear message from the government emphasizing the need for accountability. The case has also reignited calls for reforms to strengthen checks and balances in public institutions.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The revelation of the NSS payroll fraud has evoked strong reactions from Ghanaians. While many citizens applaud the government’s proactive approach to tackling corruption, others remain skeptical about whether meaningful action will be taken against those implicated. The scale of the scandal has deepened public concerns about the misuse of taxpayers’ money and the lack of effective oversight within public bodies.
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Social media platforms have been abuzz with discussions about the scandal, and many are demanding systemic reforms to ensure such fraudulent activities cannot recur.
Impact on the NSS.
The NSS plays a vital role in coordinating national service programs across Ghana, providing young graduates with the opportunity to serve their country. However, the payroll fraud scandal has brought the institution into disrepute, calling its governance and integrity into question.
As investigations continue, the NSS faces the challenge of rebuilding public trust. Instituting reforms, enhancing transparency, and strengthening accountability mechanisms will be critical in restoring its credibility.
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Reminder On Transparency And Accountability.
The release of Gifty Oware-Mensah marks a pivotal moment in the NSS payroll fraud investigation. While her cooperation with investigators is noteworthy, the public remains eager for the full truth to emerge. This scandal serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of transparency, oversight, and accountability in Ghana’s public institutions.
