By: Jeremiah Nutsugah
Minister of Land and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has emphatically denied allegations that lands under his administration have been stolen and sold.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Ministry of Information today, August 14, 2024, he stated that all such allegations are politically motivated and entirely false.
It is recalled that MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa alleged that lands belonging to key state institutions were sold by the current Akufo-Addo administration amid allegations of state capture.
Mr. Jinapor noted that the issue of public lands is often politicized during election cycle. He expressed disappointment that the same tactic is being employed in the lead-up to the 2024 elections, with unfounded claims of public lands being sold and stolen.
The Minister challenged anyone with evidence of land sales or theft to come forward, confident that no one can provide proof to support these rumors.
Addressing questions about the Achimota Forest, Mr Jinapor explained that in 2013, the government granted cabinet approval for the return of some land to the Owoo family. At the time he took office, 362 acres of the land had already been leased, and decisions were made to return this portion of the Achimota Forest to the Owoo family.
He says that the available facts and data at the Lands Commission point out that the lands were sold under the Mahama administration in 2026.
