Gifty Oware-Mensah, the former Deputy Executive Director of Ghana’s National Service Scheme (NSS) and a current member of the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) Executive Council, has returned to Ghana following a period abroad.
Return Amidst Allegations
Oware-Mensah’s return comes in the wake of allegations linking her to a payroll scandal at the NSS, which reportedly resulted in significant financial losses for the state. Speculations had arisen that she left the country to evade accountability. However, her legal representatives, Sarkodie Baffour Awuah and Partners, clarified in a statement on February 28, 2025, that she had merely taken a post-election break.
Arrival and Legal Proceedings
Upon her arrival at Kotoka International Airport, Oware-Mensah was greeted by friends and family. Contrary to earlier reports suggesting a possible arrest upon her return, she was not detained at the airport. Instead, she is scheduled to report to the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) for questioning regarding the alleged NSS payroll fraud. The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, emphasized the importance of due process, stating that there was no need for a forceful arrest and that she would cooperate fully with the investigation.
Background and Contributions
Beyond her role at the NSS, Oware-Mensah has been actively involved in Ghana’s football scene. She owns Berry Ladies Football Club and serves as the Chairperson of the Black Queens’ Management Committee. In October 2023, she secured a four-year term as the representative for women’s football on the GFA Executive Council, receiving overwhelming support from the 20 Women’s Premier League clubs during the Elective Congress in Tamale.
Next Steps
As investigations proceed, Oware-Mensah is expected to meet with NIB officials to address the allegations concerning the NSS payroll scandal. Her legal team has expressed confidence in her willingness to cooperate and clear her name. The outcome of these investigations will be closely monitored by both the public and stakeholders within the NSS and GFA.
Oware-Mensah’s return and forthcoming engagement with investigative authorities underscore the importance of due process and accountability in public service.
