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Alleged Corrupt Network at Ridge Hospital Attempts to Oust Medical Director

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Ridge Hospital

A coordinated scheme to remove the Medical Director of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital), Rev. Dr. Ralph Armah, has come to light as sources say corrupt elements are fighting back against reforms he has introduced since assuming office in April 2024.

Multiple insiders within the Ministry of Health and the hospital say Dr. Armah has become the target of a calculated smear campaign by individuals both within and outside the hospital who fear exposure. His efforts to root out corruption and enforce accountability have reportedly disrupted entrenched interests, prompting a backlash.

“He is being attacked because he’s blocking their money-making schemes,” – a source close to the matter said.

Among Dr. Armah’s reforms are a crackdown on patient extortion, the elimination of dubious allowances, the introduction of strict financial controls, a transport policy to reduce fuel misuse, and disciplinary actions against staff misconduct. His administration also stopped the routine practice of directing patients to a private pharmacy that allegedly charged exorbitant fees—some as high as $7,000.

Concerns were also raised about the use of prescription pads from private pharmacies for hospital patients—a move questioned by observers and flagged in internal reports.

A confidential investigative report available details worrying trends, including:

  • Unexplained waivers of surgical fees
  • Unpaid hospital bills after implants were inserted
  • Unauthorized implant purchases
  • Prescription and receipt mismatches at private pharmacies

Some individuals have been linked to these irregularities, with the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) reportedly investigating aspects of the matter.

Efforts to smear Dr. Armah have also included attempts to link him to a controversial contract with Safe Africa Security Services Ltd.—claims that have been debunked since the contract predates his appointment.

Instead, Dr. Armah’s leadership has seen significant financial gains. Hospital records show an impressive turnaround from a negative net asset of GH¢16.1 million in April 2024 to a positive GH¢992,000 by December 2024, with an operational surplus of over GH¢6 million.

Key achievements under his leadership include:

  • A salary increase for long-neglected non-mechanized staff
  • A sharp drop in vehicle maintenance and fuel costs through electronic monitoring
  • Elimination of water tanker purchases after the implementation of a sustainable in-house water supply system
  • Increased staff welfare support and health referral packages

Sources close to the Medical Director say while the attacks are intense, he remains focused on cleaning up Ridge Hospital and restoring public trust.

“This is what happens when you take on a system built on years of rot,” a senior health official remarked.
“But the numbers don’t lie. Dr. Armah’s leadership is delivering real results.”

As tensions grow, observers say the situation at Ridge underscores a broader challenge: the price of reform in Ghana’s public institutions, and the urgent need for state protection for individuals fighting systemic corruption.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

Atinka Kids Dance: China Escapes Eviction with Stunning Performance

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Atinka Kids Dance

It was a stage of suspense, style, and spectacular moves as the Cosmopolitan Edition of the Flora Tissue Atinka Kids Dance lit up the Sika Hall of the Tobinco Media Group in Accra.
But while many kids danced their hearts out, it was China’s dramatic survival that stole the spotlight.

Despite placing 5th from the bottom on the voting chart, China turned things around with an electrifying performance that earned him the highest score from the judges—saving him from what could have been a shocking eviction.

Joining China in the near-exit zone was Zennel, who also faced low votes but impressed the judges enough to remain in the competition.

Sadly, four groups couldn’t survive the double threat of low public votes and underwhelming performances. Afansor, Chain Breakers, Klenam, and Asa Dance Kids were all evicted.

In a show filled with glitz and energy, Jay B stood out for his creativity, winning Best Costume, while Best Performer was rightfully awarded to the comeback
China.

Judges, Elvis Kabu Otu and Ewurafua Biney expressed excitement over the kids’ growth and efforts, but didn’t hold back their warning to fans.
“Do not underestimate the power of your vote”. – says Judge Otu.
“It plays a critical role in deciding who stays and who goes.” – Judge Ewurama advised

The Atinka Kids Dance Show airs every Saturday at 1PM on Atinka TV, and the competition is heating up for the grand finale.

To keep your favorite dancers in the game, dial 713203# and vote now.

Two Boys Drown in Dam at Kubekrom No. 1

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Kubekrom

Two young boys tragically lost their lives after drowning in a dam at Golden City, a suburb of Kubekrom No. 1 in the Kpone-Katamanso Municipality. 

The incident, which occurred on the evening of Saturday, April 5, 2025, has thrown the entire community into mourning.

Eyewitnesses say the boys—10-year-old Nhyira Andoh and 11-year-old Abdul Rahman—were seen swimming in the dam late Saturday.

Their lifeless bodies were discovered the following day, Sunday afternoon, drawing hundreds of shocked residents to the scene. Community members managed to retrieve the bodies from the water before the police arrived.

The bodies have since been transported to the Tema General Hospital for autopsy and further investigation.

Speaking to the media, Yaw Andoh, father of one of the victims, expressed deep sorrow and called for urgent safety measures to prevent future tragedies.

Some residents are urging parents to keep a closer eye on their children and have also appealed to the government to fix a broken bridge in the area, which they believe adds to the community’s vulnerability.

The community is still reeling from the shock as investigations continue.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com| Karen Antwi

Adwoa Safo to appear before NPP disciplinary committee on Monday

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, is set to appear before the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Disciplinary Committee tomorrow, April 7, 2025

A letter dated March 24 and signed by Mr William Yamoah, Director of Finance and Administration, invited the MP to assist in an inquiry currently under consideration by the party.

The directive, according to the letter, came from the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee.

The hearing is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. at the NPP Headquarters Conference Room at Asylum Down, Accra.

A referral letter from the General Secretary was attached to the notice for her reference.

“You are advised to present any documentary evidence or witnesses pertinent to the matter under investigation,” the letter stated.

It also indicated that she may be accompanied by legal representation during the proceedings, should she require it.

While the party did not specify the exact subject of the inquiry, the development follows recent comments made by Ms Safo in which she accused the party’s leadership of neglecting her following her return to Parliament in 2023.

In a series of media interviews earlier this year, the former Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection alleged that certain figures within the NPP worked against her during her extended absence from the House and sought to remove her from office.

Her remarks triggered internal reactions, with some party members reportedly uncomfortable with her tone and the implications of her claims.


In the letter, the NPP stated that it remains guided by the principles of transparency, fairness, and due process, and requested that Ms Safo acknowledge receipt of the invitation and confirm her attendance.


The correspondence was copied to the National Chairman, the General Secretary, and the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee.

Ghana|Graphiconline.com

Sosu’s Madina Job Center Welcomes 120 New Apprentices 

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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The Madina Job Center (MJC) has officially welcomed 120 young people into its vocational skills program during a colourful matriculation ceremony held in Madina.

The event brought together community leaders, families, trainers, and proud parents as the new apprentices took their oaths and began their journey in trades such as tailoring, baking, hairstyling, barbering, shoemaking, makeup artistry, and nail technology.

The Madina Job Center is an initiative by the Member of Parliament for Madina, Hon. Francis-Xavier Sosu, aimed at reducing youth unemployment by helping young people learn practical skills. 

Since it was set up, the centre has trained and supported many youth in Madina with skills training, job connections, and support to start their own businesses.

Speaking at the ceremony, the CEO of the Madina Job Center, Mrs. Priscilla Naa Aklerh Plange, said the aim of the program is not just to train artisans, but to help young people discover their purpose and build better futures.

“What we’re doing here is giving people hope and helping them believe that their dreams are possible,” she said.

The event was chaired by the Chief of Danfa, Nii Djani Tsuru Afutu Brempong IV, and saw speeches from local leaders who praised the Madina MP, Sosu, for bringing positive change to the Madina community.

The Madina Job Center is also working to help youth learn about entrepreneurship and digital skills, creating more opportunities for them to succeed in today’s world.

The CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has praised the Madina MP for his commitment to youth empowerment and pledged the Authority’s support for the initiative.

Madina Job Center

Currently funded by the MP and a few private donors, the project is in need of broader public support—particularly in the provision of startup equipment and tools for trainees upon graduation, to help scale its impact across the Madina constituency.

For the 120 new apprentices, the matriculation was not just a ceremony—it was the start of a new chapter filled with hope, hard work, and the chance to succeed.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Medical Laboratory Scientists Enhance Disease Outbreak Response through Specialized Training

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Medical Laboratory

In a bid to improve response to disease outbreaks and public health interventions, the University of Ghana School of Public Health, in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, has launched a specialized training program for Medical Laboratory Scientists.

This initiative focuses on the Applied Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases and aims to equip participants with advanced molecular diagnostic techniques, strengthening both health security and disease surveillance capabilities.

Empowering Medical Laboratory Scientists

Molecular epidemiology is integral to modern disease surveillance as it enables the rapid detection, tracking, and characterization of infectious disease outbreaks.

ALSO READ: Ghana’s Escalating Opioid Crisis: Health Minister Takes Action

The training initiative is designed to build the capacity of Medical Laboratory Scientists by providing hands-on experience in genetic pathogen characterization and outbreak detection.

Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy and Data-Driven Decision-Making

The two-week intensive course offers practical experience with molecular diagnostic techniques, fostering diagnostic accuracy and empowering participants to make informed, data-driven decisions.

By strengthening laboratory networks and enhancing the skills of Medical Laboratory Scientists, the program contributes to tackling both emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.

Supporting Global Health Security

Dr. Gloria Amegatcher, Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists and one of the facilitators of the course, emphasized the importance of this capacity-building initiative.

“Empowering Medical Laboratory Scientists with molecular diagnostic skills is crucial for enhancing disease surveillance, outbreak response, and public health interventions, ultimately contributing to global health security,” she said.

A Step towards Strengthening Health Systems

This collaboration between the University of Ghana School of Public Health and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health reflects a shared commitment to strengthening health systems and improving disease surveillance. As Dr. Amegatcher noted, “Investing in the training and development of Medical Laboratory Scientists is key to ensuring more effective responses to infectious disease outbreaks, thus promoting global health security.”

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com

“suspicious flight” claims must be properly investigated – UN Office on Drugs

By
Ebenezer Madugu
-
Office on Drugs

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) says it is closely monitoring developments as Ghanaian authorities proceed with investigations into claims made by Ghana’s Minority MPs alleging that two aircraft suspected of transporting cocaine and cash used Ghana as a transit point for organized crime.

Even before National Security and other relevant agencies officially conclude investigations ordered by President John Mahama, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications has dismissed the claims made by Assin South MP, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, regarding alleged drug trafficking and money laundering involving the two aircraft.

In an explainer posted on social media, Felix Kwakye Ofosu described Mr. Fordjour’s allegations as baseless, accusing him of engaging in deliberate disinformation to undermine public confidence in the government.

However, speaking exclusively to Joy News’ Blessed Sogah, the Regional Adviser for Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Financing of Terrorism, and Anti-Corruption at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Kodjo Attisso, indicated that the allegations must be thoroughly investigated. He also expressed UNODC’s willingness to work with President Mahama on his declared zero-tolerance policy for organized crime.

“Any allegation of such a case should be properly investigated and prosecuted. And then we do believe also in the work of law enforcement and the judiciary. At this stage. We can just support and hope that they will come up with concrete results. But since it’s, you know, in the investigative stage, we cannot say much, but we are just following the case.” Kodjo Attisso stated.

n the meantime, the UN official commended the efforts of Ghanaian authorities in fighting corruption and organized crime, while welcoming the high-level statement by President John Mahama, which he posted on his Facebook wall, declaring zero tolerance for organized crime.

“So any kind of crime should be combated and we are happy, we are grateful that the President of Ghana has that direction. We know the harm of organized crime groups in our society. So the more we fight them, we make Ghana safer and secure,” he added.

Ghana|Myjoyonline.com

TPTI Marks 8th Graduation with Call to Excellence in Pharmaceutical Care

By
Ebenezer Madugu
-
TPTI

The Tobinco Pharmaceuticals Training Institute (TPTI) has held its 8th graduation ceremony with a strong call to graduates to pursue continuous excellence and become transformational players in Ghana’s healthcare system.

Held at the SIKA Hall of the Tobinco Media Group in Accra, the event saw 119 students receive certificates in six-month and one-year Medicine Counter Assistant (MCA) programmes. The ceremony, themed “Unlocking Potentials and Pursuing Excellence,” was a tribute to academic grit, professional discipline, and the power of accessible healthcare training.

TPTI

The Director of TPTI, Rev. Joseph Ahiable, opened the event with a reflection on the founding vision of the institute, which was born out of the foresight of Executive Group Chairman of the Tobinco Group of Companies, Elder Dr. Samuel Amo Tobbin

“This institution emerged during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a clear mandate to provide affordable and high-quality training for those passionate about health delivery,” – Rev. Ahiable said.

“Today, we are proud to release another cohort of capable hands into Ghana’s health ecosystem.”

He underscored the Institute’s growing reputation for excellence and hinted at plans to expand its reach across all regions in Ghana.

TPTI

The Resident Minister of the PIWC- Accra, Apostle Kingsley Addai, who delivered the keynote address, offered a compelling message on the relationship between education and personal transformation.

“You are the custodians of untapped potential,” he told graduates. “Education is the key that unlocks it—and your journey through TPTI has placed you on the path to greatness.”

TPTI

He lauded the school’s focus on practical, accessible training, calling it a model worthy of emulation across tertiary education institutions in Ghana.

ALSO READ: Atinka FM holds 10th Anniversary thanksgiving service 

One of the most anticipated moments of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding graduates.

Ms. Abigail Adzigbli, a registered midwife and graduate of Koforidua SHS, was named Best Student for Batch 12. A working mother and caregiver, her academic achievement was hailed as a testament to resilience and dedication.

TPTI
Ms. Abigail Adzigbli, Receiving the Best Student for Batch 12.

Ghana Armed Forces officer and graduate of Cape Coast Technical University, Mr. Mensah Sekyi, was honoured for his leadership and coordination as Assistant Course Representative for Batch 13 Weekend Class.

TPTI
Mr. Mensah Sekyi, receiving the honor for his leadership and coordination.

Mr. Benjamin Kobina Okyere, a recent Aburaman SHS graduate, was named Overall Best Student. Widely respected among peers for his leadership, Benjamin’s consistent support for classmates through study sessions and academic guidance made him a standout.

TPTI
Mr. Benjamin Kobina Okyere receiving the Overall Best Student prize.

Ms. Angela Parker-London, a graduate of Accra Wesley Girls’ High School and social media influencer, received a special award for her role in marketing the school. Her engaging TikTok content is credited with drawing hundreds of prospective students to the programme.

Beyond the certificates and accolades, the event underscored a larger ambition: to shape a new generation of pharmaceutical support professionals equipped with both technical skills and a mindset for service.

“Excellence is not a destination; it’s a lifelong pursuit,” Rev. Ahiable reminded the graduates. “Let your work reflect the values of this institution—discipline, compassion, and integrity.”

As TPTI continues to position itself as a leader in Ghana’s health education space, its graduates leave not just with qualifications, but with a renewed sense of purpose—ready to serve, ready to lead, and ready to impact lives.

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Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Ntim Fordjour Fires Back At Kwakye Ofosu, says He is a Truthful Pastor

By
Ebenezer Madugu
-
Ntim Fordjour

The Ranking Member of the Defense and Interior Committee in Parliament, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has vehemently denied claims made by Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, over his allegations of suspicious aircraft landing at Kotoka International Airport.

Speaking on Atinka 104.7 FM’s morning show with Ekow Budu Sam, the Assin South MP declared, “I am a pastor, and I don’t lie. I have not been invited by any security agency as Kwakye Ofosu claimed. I challenge him to produce a single letter indicating I was invited.”

Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, described the minister’s comments as “pure lies” and an attempt to shield the government from accountability after he raised red flags about the presence of aircraft allegedly involved in drug trafficking and money laundering in Ghana.

According to him, after President John Mahama directed those investigations be conducted into the matter, he personally wrote to the relevant agencies proposing a joint meeting to fast-track the process. However, he claims those efforts were deliberately blocked.

“They are still covering up after I exposed them. I was looking forward to engaging them, but they backed out. What were they afraid of?” – he questioned.

ALSO READ: Gov’t Dismisses Ntim Fordjour’sClaims on ‘Suspicious Aircraft’ at Kotoka 

Rev. Fordjour further said he was pleased that the government has now admitted that the aircraft did arrive in Ghana and even confirmed the number of days they spent in the country.

“Ofosu’s explanations don’t make sense. How can a plane traveling from Spain to Angola  skip all the countries along the route and suddenly land in Ghana? He even said the crew fell sick—so which hospital did they go to? The answers are not adding up.”

He also disputed the minister’s claim that one of the aircrafts had proper permits. “Is Ghana the place where permits are given for flights that are headed to the EU? That explanation doesn’t hold,” he added.

Rev. Fordjour criticized Kwakye Ofosu for turning a national security concern into political banter, saying: “He’s just doing politics. We expect the National Security apparatus to handle this matter independently. They must also come out and update the public on the unresolved Sapeiman issue.”

The back-and-forth between the two officials follows recent reports about two aircraft—an Antonov cargo plane and an air ambulance—whose landings in Ghana raised concerns about possible illicit activities. While the government insists the flights were legitimate and fully cleared, Rev. Ntim Fordjour continues to call for transparency and independent investigations.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Suspicious Flights at Kotoka: All You Must Know

By
Ebenezer Madugu
-
Suspicious Flights
  1. Allegations by MP 

Rev. Ntim Fordjour, also MP for Assin South, claimed that two aircraft were involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.

2. Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed allegations made by Rev. John Ntim Fordjour regarding suspicious aircraft landings at Kotoka International Airport.

3. President Mahama’s Response 

The President directed security agencies to investigate the matter and invited Fordjour to provide evidence—but he reportedly failed to cooperate.

4. Fordjour Shifts Position 

   According to the Minister, Fordjour now claims he spoke on behalf of a parliamentary committee, not in his personal capacity, and refuses to assist investigators.

5. Details of Aircraft 1 – Antonov An-12B (CVK7037)

 Date of Arrival: March 12, 2025 

Purpose: Technical stop en route from Luanda to the EU 

Cargo: Oil drilling equipment and lubricant oil 

Reason for Stop: Ghana has certified scanning facilities required by EU regulations, which Angola lacks 

   Incident: Aircraft developed engine blade fault and oil leakage 

   Action Taken: Replacement aircraft (CV7007) sent to evacuate cargo 

  Inspection Result: No contraband or illegal items found

6. Details of Aircraft 2 – AirMed Hawker 800XP (N823AM)

 Date of Arrival: March 20, 2025 

  Operator: AirMed International (air ambulance service) 

   Route: From Spain via Angola 

 Purpose: Technical stop for refueling and crew rest 

 Incident: Developed tyre fault on landing 

 Resolution: Spare parts flown in, aircraft fixed and departed on March 25 

 Inspection Result: Cleared of any illegal activity

7. Government’s position

 Claims by Rev. Fordjour are false, misleading, and politically motivated. 

 No evidence of drug or money laundering found. 

  Urges public to be cautious of disinformation from opposition groups

8. Warning Against Political Misinformation 

 The Minister condemns attempts to mislead the public under the guise of legislative oversight and calls for responsible political conduct.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

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