The Joseph Yamin-led operation to retrieve all looted state prosperities in the Ashanti area has seized a shipment of government fertilisers that were meant to be distributed to farmers in a two-story structure at the Sokoban news site in Kumasi.
Joseph Yamin, the National Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has called for accountability and additional investigations in response to the startling revelation.
The intercepted fertilisers, which were supposed to help farmers under government programs, were allegedly stockpiled and maybe redirected for private benefit, according to Justice Bediako Yamin, regional correspondent for Ghana New Ashanti. "This is a significant problem.
There is proof that these fertilisers have been concealed in a private warehouse, despite the fact that they are meant to be given to farmers in order to increase agricultural production. The consequences are concerning," he stated.
Yamin voiced concern about the present administration's systematic squandering of resources.
In addition to depriving farmers of vital assistance, he pointed out that fertiliser diversion calls into doubt the efficacy of existing inspection procedures. "Fertilisers are essential for increasing food production, particularly during difficult economic times. It is an assault on our farmers' livelihood and food security if they are being stockpiled or sold illegally, Yamin stated.
Allegations of Corruption and Cover-Up
Yamin did not hold back when relating the episode to more general corruption concerns. He asserted that such resource-disturbing activities are not unique and frequently help those with political clout. "We have heard of the misappropriation of government resources before.
We must enquire: Who is the owner of this structure? Who gave permission for these fertilisers to be kept here? He asked, "How long has this been going on?"
In response to a question regarding the next course of action, Yamin promised that the NDC will insist on a thorough investigation. "We're going to demand responsibility. This is about the idea of fairness and governance, not only Kumasi or the farmers in this area. People are mistaken if they believe they can get away with this. "We will reveal them," he underlined.
Impact on Farmers
The lack of fertiliser in recent months has angered local farmers, who have resorted to buying it at exorbitant costs. The difficulties farmers encounter in obtaining government-subsidized inputs are further highlighted by the Sokoban consignment that was confiscated.
"I'm not shocked. The fertilisers that are supposed to reach us have been a source of our long-standing complaints. We now understand why," a local farmer told GHone news.
Yamin Urges Vigilance
Yamin urged everyone to be on the lookout for unusual activity and to report it, especially farmers and community leaders. "We must not keep quiet. Transparency must be guaranteed by those in charge of distribution, and farmers must speak up," he stated.
Authorities Remain Silent
At the time of reporting, attempts to get in touch with Ministry of Agriculture representatives for comments were not successful. The public's growing discontent with the way agricultural resources are being managed is exacerbated by the revelation of stored fertilisers. Many people expect that as investigations progress, the guilty will be held accountable and that preventative measures will be implemented.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Isaac Bediako