Saturday, February 21, 2026
Home Blog Page 92

“I Nearly Died in EOCO Custody,” Says Chairman Wontumi

Kumasi, Ghana — Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, known politically as Chairman Wontumi and serving as the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, has recounted a traumatic near-death experience during his detention by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

img 4934
“I Nearly Died in EOCO Custody,” Says Chairman Wontumi 4

Arrested on May 27, 2025, following an invitation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for questioning over allegations including fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state, Chairman Wontumi remained in custody for several days due to inability to meet the high bail requirement (GH₵50 million with two sureties)  .

“I was kept in a very small and tight room… I nearly died while there,” Wontumi said. “As a human being, you can see if you are about to die… I realised I was dying after I started seeing my dead relatives”.

He described the confinement space as scarcely wide enough to turn, and the psychological distress as overwhelming. Drawing parallels to Jesus Christ’s agony on the cross, Wontumi shared that the ordeal compelled him to cry out, urging, “People of Ghana, arise!”.

Timeline of Events

May 27, 2025

Custody begins after CID interrogation; detention continues due to unfulfilled bail terms.

Late May to Early June 2025

Wontumi’s legal team finalizes bail documents, aided by NPP figures including Dr. Bryan Acheampong.

June 2, 2025

Chairman Wontumi is finally released after meeting the bail conditions and resolving a brief legal impasse.

⚖️ Political Backdrop & Reactions

Chairman Wontumi has since claimed that his detention reflects broader political persecution of NPP leaders by the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and other NPP officials argue that EOCO and state instruments are being misused to intimidate opposition figures.

Party supporters and regional party directors vocally condemned his treatment, with promises to stand by him until his release was secured.

Analysis & Implications

Health & Human Rights: Wontumi’s description raises questions over detainee treatment and access to humane conditions within state custody. Political Strategy: The incident has become a rallying point for NPP, especially ahead of internal primaries and the 2028 general election. Justice & Fairness: Human rights advocates have called for independent investigation into EOCO’s handling of the case, emphasising transparency and detainee welfare.

“I Nearly Died in EOCO Custody,” Says Chairman Wontumi 5

What’s Next

As investigations continue, Wontumi has pledged to stay engaged with party affairs and to seek justice both politically and legally. The incident remains a potent symbol for debates over political freedoms, detainment conditions, and accountability in Ghanaian governance.

“If My Boyfriend Cheats on Me, I’ll Apologise and Be a Better Woman” – Serwaa of Apedwa Sparks Debate

Apedwa, Kumasi – A young woman from Apedwa in the Ashanti Region has become the subject of intense social media debate after making a controversial statement about relationships. Serwaa, a 24-year-old seamstress apprentice, boldly declared that if her boyfriend were to cheat on her, she would apologise to him and strive to become a better woman rather than walk away.

“If My Boyfriend Cheats on Me, I’ll Apologise and Be a Better Woman” – Serwaa of Apedwa Sparks Debate 7

The remarks, made during a community youth forum in Kumasi, have since gone viral, sparking outrage, confusion, and admiration in equal measure. According to Serwaa, her philosophy stems from her belief that “men only cheat when they are lacking something at home.”

“If my boyfriend cheats on me, I will first ask myself what I did wrong. Maybe I wasn’t giving him enough care or attention. Instead of fighting him, I will apologise and try to improve. That is what makes a strong relationship,” Serwaa said, drawing mixed reactions from the audience.

Public Reaction

Her comments have ignited heated discussions across Apedwa and beyond. Some young women criticized her stance, describing it as a dangerous mindset that enables toxic behavior. Others, however, praised her humility, with some men in attendance saying her words reflected “rare loyalty” in modern relationships.

A local pastor who attended the forum expressed concern, saying:

“Forgiveness is good, but no woman should blame herself for a man’s unfaithfulness. Relationships require accountability on both sides.”

A Wider Debate on Gender Roles

Serwaa’s statement has highlighted ongoing cultural debates in Ghana about gender roles, loyalty, and the expectations placed on women in relationships. In many traditional settings, women are often encouraged to endure infidelity to preserve relationships, while men face fewer consequences for cheating.

As her story circulates on social platforms, Serwaa insists she was only sharing her personal view and not prescribing it to everyone.

“Every woman has her choice. This is mine,” she told reporters.

Whether viewed as misguided or admirable, Serwaa’s perspective has undoubtedly sparked a necessary conversation about love, loyalty, and respect in modern Ghanaian relationships.

Hearts of Oak Rejects $250K Offer for Benjamin Asare

Accra, Ghana – Accra Hearts of Oak have reportedly turned down an official $250,000 bid from a Saudi Arabian club for their goalkeeper and captain, Benjamin Asare.

Hearts of Oak Rejects $250K Offer for Benjamin Asare 9

🔍 Details:

The offer, submitted to the club directly, was confirmed to be a formal proposal by the bidding club  . However, Hearts of Oak rebuffed the initial offer, signaling their intention to retain Asare for the near future.

Strategic Implications:

Benjamin Asare is a key player for the club, serving as both first-choice goalkeeper and team captain. Rejecting the offer underscores the club’s strategy to prioritize on-field leadership and stability.

🧠 Club Commentary:

In a related press conference ahead of the 2025 Democracy Cup clash with Great Olympics, Hearts coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani emphasized the club’s depth and readiness for Asare’s potential absence due to national team duties  . Dramani highlighted that other players are prepared to step in when needed.

🚨 What Happens Next?

It’s unclear if Saudi officials will come back with a higher bid. If retained, Asare is likely to continue as Hearts’ dependable presence between the posts and leadership on the pitch.

Sammy Gyamfi Urges Pension Reform: Gold Investments as Key to Sustainable Returns

Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Sammy Gyamfi, has called for a fundamental shift in Ghana’s pension investment strategy, urging policymakers to channel a greater share of pension assets into gold and other mineral-backed ventures.

According to him, Ghana’s primary pension fund continues to yield near-negative real returns, eroding the value of contributors’ savings over time. He attributed this to what he described as an “overdependence on unproductive ventures” that fail to generate meaningful profits. In contrast, foreign pension funds, particularly in countries with rich mineral deposits, have successfully leveraged natural resources such as gold to deliver stable and competitive returns for their retirees.

Why Gold?

Mr. Gyamfi’s argument is rooted in both economic history and market realities. Gold has long been recognized as a hedge against inflation and currency depreciation, qualities that are particularly relevant in Ghana’s current economic climate where inflation remains high and the cedi continues to face pressure.

Sammy Gyamfi Urges Pension Reform: Gold Investments as Key to Sustainable Returns 11

“Ghana sits on immense mineral wealth, yet our pension funds are not actively benefiting from it. We should be asking why foreign pension funds profit from our gold while our workers retire on meager savings,” Gyamfi argued.

Economists note that gold prices have shown resilience in times of global uncertainty, often climbing when other asset classes falter. By integrating gold into pension portfolios, Ghana could insulate its pensioners from economic shocks while tapping into the country’s comparative advantage.

Risks and Realities

However, while the proposal is bold, it is not without risks. Pension funds typically prioritize security and liquidity, ensuring that retirees can access their savings when needed. Mining investments, although lucrative, carry exposure to global price volatility, operational risks, and governance concerns.

Financial analysts caution that any shift must be carefully managed with strong oversight and diversification strategies. “It’s not just about investing in gold—it’s about structuring the investment in a way that balances risk and return. Pension funds can’t gamble with people’s futures,” one investment consultant told this paper.

Broader Debate on Pension Sustainability

Mr. Gyamfi’s call comes at a time of growing unease among contributors about the sustainability of Ghana’s pension system. With rising living costs and limited returns, many workers fear that their pensions will not be adequate to sustain them through retirement. Labor unions have repeatedly petitioned government and the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) to reform the system, citing concerns over transparency, low yields, and poor accountability in fund management.

By advocating for a reorientation toward gold, Gyamfi is not only pushing for higher returns but also sparking a broader debate on whether Ghana is fully maximizing its natural resources to secure the welfare of its people.

The Way Forward

If Ghana were to adopt a gold-backed pension strategy, it would need a carefully designed framework, involving partnerships with credible mining firms, strict governance rules, and mechanisms to shield contributors from commodity market fluctuations.

For now, Gyamfi’s proposal has opened up a critical conversation—should Ghana continue on its current trajectory of low-yield pension investments, or leverage its mineral wealth to secure retirees’ futures?

As the debate unfolds, one fact remains: without significant reforms, Ghana’s pension system risks leaving many workers vulnerable in their old age.

“I’ll Marry in God’s Appointed Time” — Martha Ankomah on Single Life, Prayer and Patience

Ghanaian screen star Martha Ankomah has once again addressed her relationship status, telling fans she is single, not dating and trusting God’s timing for marriage — a stance she has repeated across several interviews over the past few years. In an interview first reported in 2020 she said she believed she would marry when it was “God’s time,” a message she has reiterated since. 

“I’ll Marry in God’s Appointed Time” — Martha Ankomah on Single Life, Prayer and Patience 13

The actress, well known for her film and television roles, has been open about her longing for family life while stressing faith and patience. In a televised interview late in 2024 Ankomah admitted she often thinks about having children and even joked about wishing she had “three kids” to take to Sunday school — but added that she is placing the matter in prayer and waiting on God’s answer. 

Ankomah’s position is consistent: she has publicly stated she is not actively dating and refuses to rush into a relationship she believes is not ordained for her. Speaking previously on Kingdom Plus FM and in other media appearances, she told interviewers she cannot — and will not — force a relationship and that she frequently prays about marriage, reminding God of her desire while trusting His timing. 

Fans and commentators often react strongly when celebrities discuss private life choices. For Ankomah, the conversation has been more about faith and calm resolve than headlines: she frames singlehood as a season, not a failure. “Delay doesn’t mean denial,” she has said, a refrain that underscores her broader message of patience and hope. 

While marriage and family remain personal priorities, Ankomah’s public life continues full tilt. Beyond matters of the heart, she has used her platform to highlight industry issues — most recently speaking out about colourism and pressures faced by darker-skinned actors — demonstrating that her public voice stretches across social as well as personal terrain.

What this means for fans is simple: Ankomah remains a figure many admire not only for her craft but for her candid, faith-forward approach to life’s milestones. Whether marriage comes soon or later, she has made clear her belief that when it does arrive it will be because it is right for her — and because it comes in God’s appointed time.  

Derrick Arthur’s Black Stars Debut Delayed as FIFA Holds Up Nationality Switch

Cologne-based FC Union Berlin defender Derrick Arthur was left disappointed after missing out on his much-anticipated debut for the Ghana Black Stars during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad 🇹🇩 and Mali 🇲🇱.

Derrick Arthur’s Black Stars Debut Delayed as FIFA Holds Up Nationality Switch 16

Arthur, who was born in Hamburg and previously represented Germany at youth level, recently pledged his international future to Ghana. However, FIFA has yet to finalize his nationality switch from German to Ghanaian, making him ineligible to play despite being included in Otto Addo’s squad.

Derrick Arthur’s Black Stars Debut Delayed as FIFA Holds Up Nationality Switch 17

The setback was even more disheartening as members of his fan club travelled to the stadium to cheer him on, only to see him sit out the matches because of paperwork delays. Their frustration echoed the disappointment of many Ghanaians who were eager to watch the Bundesliga defender in national colours for the first time.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has assured fans that all necessary documents have already been submitted to FIFA and expressed confidence that clearance will be granted soon. Once approved, Derrick Arthur is expected to add strength, pace, and competition to the Black Stars’ left-back position.

For now, the Cologne-based defender must remain patient, but both supporters and technical handlers believe his debut is only a matter of time.

Double Tragedy as Grieving Father Dies at Son’s Funeral

A family in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, has been left devastated after 61-year-old Norman White collapsed and died while attending the funeral of his son, David Beilicki.

Norman, who was at St Bede’s Chapel at Teesside Crematorium to pay his final respects, is believed to have suffered a massive heart attack during the service. Paramedics rushed to the scene but were unable to save him.

Double Tragedy as Grieving Father Dies at Son’s Funeral 19

His son, 41-year-old David, had been found dead earlier this year on a relative’s sofa following a long battle with addiction. Despite years of struggle, his family revealed he had been making progress in recovery and had been staying clean from drugs at the time of his passing.

David’s sister, Chantelle, spoke about his journey, sharing that he had shown signs of turning his life around. “He had been doing well. He was staying clean and making progress with his recovery,” she said.

Tragically, David’s death occurred exactly ten years after the memorial service for his stillborn twin sons, compounding the family’s grief.

Now, the sudden passing of Norman during the funeral has left the family reeling from a double tragedy, mourning both father and son in the space of days.

Friends and community members have since expressed their condolences, describing the events as “unbearably heartbreaking.”

Asafo Powers Nominated at Ghana Entertainment Awards USA 2025

Ghana’s fast-rising comedy star, Asafo Powers, popularly known as Killer Ntua, has secured a nomination at the prestigious Ghana Entertainment Awards USA 2025. The recognition places him among Ghana’s most celebrated entertainers making waves beyond the local stage.

Asafo Powers Nominated at Ghana Entertainment Awards USA 2025 21

The annual awards, which highlight outstanding Ghanaian and African talents in music, film, comedy, and other creative industries, will take place later this year in the United States. Asafo Powers’ nomination comes as a major win for Ghana’s comedy scene, which continues to gain international attention.

Voting for the awards is currently open and runs until September 20, 2025. Fans are encouraged to rally behind Asafo Powers by casting their votes to support one of Ghana’s brightest comedy exports.

The comedian, known for his hilarious skits, unique stagecraft, and viral performances, has steadily built a strong fanbase both in Ghana and abroad. His style, which blends satire, everyday social issues, and cultural humor, has made him a household name.

Entertainment analysts say this nomination is proof that Ghanaian comedy is earning the global spotlight it deserves. If Asafo Powers clinches the award, it will not only mark a personal milestone but also cement Ghana’s place in the growing comedy industry on the international stage.

Otto Addo Praises Kwasi Sibo After Impressive Black Stars Debut

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has heaped praise on midfielder Kwasi Sibo following his impressive debut for the senior national team. Sibo, who recently joined the squad, made his first appearance in Ghana’s crucial qualifier and immediately caught the attention of both fans and technical handlers.

Speaking after the match, Otto Addo highlighted the midfielder’s strong mentality and seamless integration into the squad.

Otto Addo Praises Kwasi Sibo After Impressive Black Stars Debut 23

“I think he really did well,” Addo said. “It’s not easy to come from a different environment to fit into this world (team), but he knows a lot of players in the team already, and he connected well. He’s very self-confident, and I think he did extremely well, especially considering this was his first performance – he’s a warrior throughout, you could see.”

Sibo, who made headlines weeks ago after a viral jersey swap moment with French superstar Kylian Mbappé, has since carried that confidence onto the international stage. His debut showcased not only his resilience but also his ability to adapt quickly under pressure.

Fans and analysts have already tipped him as one to watch in the coming fixtures, with many noting that his presence in midfield adds a new dynamic to the Black Stars setup.

Otto Addo’s endorsement is expected to boost Sibo‘s confidence further as Ghana continues its journey in the qualifiers. The young midfielder will now look to cement his place in the team and build on this promising start.

Ghana’s Youngest Medical Doctor Graduates at 22

Ghana has once again witnessed a historic academic feat as Dr. Kwaku Boakye Gyamfi has emerged as the country’s youngest medical doctor at the age of 22. The brilliant young man bagged his medical degree from the prestigious University of Cape Coast (UCC), where his academic excellence stood out among his peers.

Ghana’s Youngest Medical Doctor Graduates at 22 25

Dr. Gyamfi’s journey to this remarkable milestone has not only set him apart but has also inspired many young Ghanaians to pursue their dreams with determination and hard work. At the graduation ceremony, he was honored as the Best Graduating Student in Surgery, a recognition that further underscores his exceptional commitment and intelligence in the field of medicine.

Many have marveled at his achievement, with some jokingly remarking that he must have had “three heads,” echoing the familiar words of Ghanaian parents who often use the phrase to highlight outstanding academic excellence.

His success story comes at a time when the country is calling on more young professionals to step into critical roles in healthcare. For many, Dr. Gyamfi’s journey is a strong testament to what discipline, perseverance, and dedication can achieve, regardless of age.

As Ghana celebrates this remarkable accomplishment, the future looks bright for the young doctor, who is expected to contribute significantly to the nation’s health sector and inspire the next generation of students to aim high.

Exit mobile version