Vice President’s Office Denies Involvement in Alleged Illegal Activities in Cantonments and Labone

The Office of the Vice President has issued a strong response to recent media reports alleging its involvement in unauthorized activities, including illegal entry and demolition of properties in the Cantonments and Labone areas of Accra. In a press release dated Friday, September 6, and signed by Gideon Boako, the spokesperson for the Vice President, the office firmly denied any connection to the alleged incidents.

According to the statement, there have been widespread reports in the media suggesting that individuals involved in these illegal actions were acting under the authority of the Vice President. The statement categorically refuted these claims and clarified the position of the Vice President’s office regarding these allegations.

“We wish to place on record that the Vice President or his Office does not have any interest in any property in the Cantonments and Labone areas where such acts are alleged to have occurred,” the statement emphasized. This unequivocal statement aimed to distance the Vice President’s office from any involvement in the reported activities.

The statement further stressed that no officer or agent has been authorized by the Vice President or his office to engage in any actions involving properties or land in these areas. “We are by this release, calling on the general public to treat as false, any information contrary to the position stated above,” the statement added.

The allegations stem from reports that surfaced earlier this week, claiming that certain individuals, allegedly acting under the directives of the Vice President’s office, forcibly entered private properties in Cantonments and Labone and carried out demolition exercises without proper authorization. These actions, according to the reports, sparked outrage among property owners and raised concerns about potential abuses of power by government officials.

However, the Vice President’s office has firmly denied any connection to these activities, emphasizing that it has no stake or interest in any properties in these areas. The press release also called on the media and the general public to exercise caution and verify information before circulating false allegations that could harm reputations and cause unnecessary public alarm.

The clarification by the Vice President’s office is seen as an effort to set the record straight and counter any attempts to link the Vice President to actions that are both unlawful and damaging to the community. It also underscores the office’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations.

In response to the Vice President’s statement, several civil society organizations and public figures have called for a thorough investigation into the alleged activities in Cantonments and Labone. They stress that the authorities must establish the facts surrounding these incidents and ensure that any individuals found guilty of illegal actions are held accountable, irrespective of their affiliations.

Meanwhile, local property owners affected by the reported demolitions have expressed their frustration and demanded justice. One resident, who requested anonymity, lamented the damage to their property and the sense of insecurity that has arisen due to the actions of the individuals involved. “We don’t feel safe anymore; we need assurance from the government that our properties and rights will be protected,” the resident said.

The controversy has sparked broader discussions about property rights and governance in Ghana, with some critics arguing that the incident reflects deeper systemic issues related to land administration and enforcement of property laws. Legal experts have pointed out that unauthorized demolition of properties constitutes a serious violation of property rights and could result in legal repercussions for those responsible.

There have also been calls from various quarters for the government to strengthen oversight mechanisms and ensure that no public or private entities can engage in unauthorized land or property activities. “It is essential that we protect the rights of property owners and ensure that all citizens are treated fairly under the law,” said a spokesperson for the Ghana Bar Association.

Furthermore, some political analysts believe that the swift response from the Vice President’s office reflects a desire to maintain public trust and uphold the rule of law. By promptly addressing the allegations and providing a clear statement of their position, the Vice President’s office aims to reassure the public that it does not condone any illegal activities and remains committed to upholding the principles of justice and fairness.

The statement from the Vice President’s office is expected to reduce speculation and unfounded rumors about the involvement of high-ranking officials in illegal property-related actions. However, it has also placed pressure on law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the claims and provide clarity on who is responsible for the unauthorized activities in the Cantonments and Labone areas.

As the situation unfolds, the public will be watching closely to see how the government handles the issue and whether further measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. For now, the Vice President’s office remains firm in its position, denying any involvement in the alleged illegal activities and calling on the public to disregard any contrary information.