Source: Samuel Nyamekye Jnr.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has intensified scrutiny of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources following revelations of major financial irregularities, including duplicate claims estimated at over GH¢80 million.
At a hearing in Accra, auditors’ findings exposed widespread discrepancies in the Ministry’s financial records, raising concerns about weak internal controls and accountability.
Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East and PAC member, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, described the situation as deeply troubling, as she questioned officials over anomalies captured in the audit report.
The report revealed that claims exceeding GH¢1.1 million were disallowed due to administrative lapses, including duplicate entries and payment requests for expenses already settled. Additionally, about GH¢3.7 million remains unaccounted for, with auditors citing missing documentation, lack of third-party verification, and poor record-keeping.
A key concern during the session was the disclosure of duplicate claims amounting to more than GH¢80 million. Committee members described the figure as alarming, suggesting it could indicate either serious inefficiencies or potential fraud within the system.
Hon. Okunor pressed officials on how such claims bypassed internal audit and financial control mechanisms before reaching the Ministry of Finance, and whether any investigations had been initiated to establish accountability.
In response, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Yussif Sulemana, acknowledged the irregularities but attributed them partly to the complex structure of compensation payments in the sector.
He explained that such payments often involve multiple institutions, including the Lands Commission, and may be processed through different channels, which can lead to inconsistencies when coordination is weak.
However, PAC members demanded clearer accountability, urging technical officers within the Ministry to provide detailed explanations and take responsibility for the discrepancies.
“This report concerns your ministry, and accountability must be ensured,” the Committee stressed.
The probe highlights growing concerns over public financial management and reinforces calls for stronger oversight to safeguard public funds.
