Finali Limited, the management company overseeing the prestigious Airport Hills estate in Accra, has formally addressed concerns regarding the residential status of Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The clarification follows a request from Parliament’s Appointments Committee, which sought details about the Minister’s occupancy and property ownership at Plot No. 565, No. 1 Wilshire Boulevard.
The issue gained public attention when the Appointments Committee, during its vetting process, asked Mr. Ablakwa to provide evidence regarding his residence. In response, the Minister took it upon himself to formally request confirmation from Finali Limited, despite the Chairman of the Committee advising against further inquiries on the matter.
In a letter dated February 3, 2025, Mr. Ablakwa underscored his commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that he saw it as a duty to clarify any ambiguity surrounding his residence. He noted that while the Appointments Committee’s Chairman had attempted to halt further discussions on the issue, he felt a personal obligation to provide accurate information to uphold public trust.
Finali Limited, in its official response to the Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, outlined the details of Mr. Ablakwa’s tenancy agreement and ownership status of the property. The company confirmed that a Land Title Certificate was issued on December 15, 2017, registered as GA. 53985 Volume 02 Folio 1440, for a parcel of land measuring 0.29 acres—equivalent to one plot—transferred from Finali Limited to Husni Altheebeh.
Further documentation indicated that a Tenancy Agreement was signed on March 1, 2017, between Mr. Altheebeh and Mr. Ablakwa, alongside Ms. Nuhela Seidu. Finali Limited granted its consent to this arrangement on August 8, 2017. Additionally, the company confirmed that the tenancy agreement was renewed on March 1, 2022, with all requisite approvals secured.
To substantiate its position, Finali Limited attached copies of key documents, including the Land Title Certificate issued on December 15, 2017, a consent certificate for the 2022 renewal, the Tenant Undertakings signed in 2017 and 2022, and the Lessee’s Acknowledgements from both years. The company further clarified that Airport Hills is primarily an owner-occupied community, where rentals are highly restricted and subject to direct approval by Finali Limited.
Following this clarification, Mr. Ablakwa publicly refuted claims suggesting that he owned the property in question. He stressed that Finali Limited’s official statement put to rest any false accusations regarding his ownership of the residence. According to him, he remains a tenant, not the owner, and has been legally occupying the property under an established rental agreement.
He also addressed misinformation regarding the size of the property, correcting previous reports that inaccurately claimed the residence spanned four plots. According to the official documents from Finali Limited, the property covers only a single plot.
Furthermore, Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that the property owner, Mr. Altheebeh, is neither a Ghanaian citizen nor affiliated with his family in any way. He dismissed any speculation suggesting otherwise, urging the public to rely on verified documentation rather than unsubstantiated claims.
Another critical point of clarification was the rental policy at Airport Hills. Contrary to suggestions that renting properties within the estate is prohibited, Finali Limited confirmed that rentals are indeed allowed but require official approval from the company. This, according to Mr. Ablakwa, further discredits any narrative attempting to portray his tenancy as irregular.
The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to upholding accountability in public service, noting that he has always operated with integrity throughout his political career. He stated that his decision to voluntarily seek clarification from Finali Limited was motivated by his dedication to transparency and ethical leadership.
He also addressed what he described as attempts to tarnish his reputation, reiterating that he had never been found guilty of any wrongdoing in his 17 years of public service. He pointed out that no audit report had ever implicated him in any financial misconduct, emphasizing that he had always conducted himself with honesty.
Despite facing scrutiny, Mr. Ablakwa remains resolute, stating that he would not be deterred by what he described as politically motivated attempts to discredit him. He assured the public that his actions were driven by a deep sense of duty to Ghana and a firm commitment to protecting national resources.
The Minister further stated that throughout his years in office, he has consistently prioritized accountability, transparency, and the prudent use of state resources. He emphasized that his political career has been shaped by a commitment to public service, and he will continue to uphold the highest ethical standards.
He also called on the media and the public to verify information before spreading false narratives, cautioning that misinformation has the potential to damage reputations and mislead the public. He urged journalists and citizens to rely on factual documentation rather than political propaganda.
The Minister expressed appreciation to Finali Limited for its swift response in clarifying the matter, stating that it reinforces the importance of transparency in governance. He further assured Ghanaians that he remains dedicated to serving the country with honesty, integrity, and accountability.
He reiterated his unwavering commitment to national development and good governance, encouraging all public officials to embrace transparency as a guiding principle in their service to the country. He stressed that trust in leadership is built on accountability, and as a public servant, he will continue to lead by example.
He concluded his statement by urging Ghanaians to remain focused on ensuring accountability and good governance. He reiterated his dedication to national service, stating, “Their evil machinations have already failed. ORAL shall succeed. Let’s remain focused on resetting Ghana. For God and Country. Ghana First.”
This clarification from Finali Limited, coupled with Mr. Ablakwa’s response, aims to put an end to the speculation surrounding his residency. By providing official documentation and reinforcing his commitment to transparency, the Minister has taken a definitive step in addressing the concerns raised.
The issue highlights the importance of accurate reporting and responsible public discourse, especially concerning matters of public interest. As Ghana continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, adherence to factual information and due diligence remains crucial in ensuring informed decision-making at all levels of governance.
