The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Association of Banks, John Awuah, has raised concerns over suspected fraudulent issuance of Ghana Cards to non-Ghanaians, calling on the National Identification Authority (NIA) to investigate possible internal collusion.
In a post on social media, Mr. Awuah alleged that groups of individuals—some arriving in buses and unable to speak any local language or name a Ghanaian hometown—have been appearing at banks bearing Ghana Cards intended for citizens. He described the situation as “very inappropriate” and warned of dire consequences if the integrity of the national identity system is compromised.
“NIA, please watch your internal processes. It is possible some cartel is operating from within your organisation,” he wrote. “If we lose the Ghana Card to greed, what becomes of our identity as Ghanaians?”
Mr. Awuah claimed that while some Ghanaians continue to face delays in accessing the card, non-Ghanaians are acquiring it “on a silver platter and in groups,” potentially aiding fraud syndicates. He called the situation a “national disaster” and urged urgent corrective action.
In response, the NIA’s Executive Director, Yayra Koku, acknowledged the concerns in a statement issued via Facebook on Sunday, July 27. He said investigations into the matter had begun, and any staff or individuals found culpable would face the full rigours of the law.
Mr. Koku cited a recent case where a Nigerian national was convicted for attempting to fraudulently obtain a Ghana Card, with 13 others currently facing prosecution for similar offences. “These cases reflect the active collaboration between NIA and the security agencies to protect the integrity of our system,” he stated.
He, however, cautioned against relying on language, complexion, or accent as indicators of nationality, noting that the issuance of the Ghana Card is governed strictly by legal criteria.
The NIA is urging the public to report any suspected fraud via email at info@nia.gov.gh or through WhatsApp on 0549889525.
The Authority also announced that its Corporate Affairs Directorate will soon brief the media on further steps being taken to curb illegal activity.
“Let’s all work together to preserve the integrity of the Ghana Card,” Mr. Koku said.
