The recent partnership between the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and Enterprise Insurance, owned by Ken Ofori-Atta, has brought to light accusations of nepotism and favoritism within the government’s procurement processes.
The controversy, linked to the management of the state-owned Intercity State Transport Company (STC), has raised eyebrows and stirred public scrutiny.
According to sources close to the matter, the ADB seemingly influenced STC’s decision to engage Enterprise Insurance for the company’s fleet insurance needs, shifting away from the State Insurance Company (SIC).
Questions surrounding the transparency of ADB’s dealings and the preference for a private entity over a state-owned insurer have fueled suspicions of cronyism within the decision-making process.
Notably, the association between Enterprise Insurance and the state-owned entities has drawn attention to the family connections at play.
Eno Ofori-Atta, who was previously appointed as the head of SIC-Financial Services, is Ken Ofori-Atta’s sister-in-law.
Her alleged involvement in steering business towards Enterprise Insurance, owned by her brother-in-law, has been met with criticism as it underscores concerns of familial influence in government transactions.
Moreover, subsequent to securing the deal between STC and Enterprise Insurance, Eno Ofori-Atta was transferred to ADB as Deputy Managing Director, with purported ambitions to assume the role of Managing Director.
These developments have further fueled speculations of a calculated maneuver to consolidate influence within the banking institution.
The intertwining web of associations continues, with reports suggesting that the current Managing Director at ADB, Alhassan Yakubu-Tali, is married to Napaga Tia Sulemana, an influential figure within the President’s inner circle.
The apparent alignment of familial ties and professional engagements in shaping significant business decisions has raised concerns over ethical practices and impartiality in government affairs.
Additionally, allegations surrounding Enterprise Insurance’s involvement in other government contracts, such as insuring health workers during the COVID-19 crisis and securing deals with state entities like the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the controversial National Cathedral project, have sparked further scrutiny and calls for transparency in procurement processes.
As the spotlight intensifies on the intricate network of relationships and transactions, the public outcry against perceived nepotism and favoritism underscores the need for greater accountability and adherence to ethical standards in government dealings.