James Tieku-Apawu to Testify in NAFCO Fraud Trial Involving Ex-CEO and Wife

The Ghanaian Times reports on a significant development in the ongoing NAFCO fraud trial, where James Tieku-Apawu is slated to testify as a prosecution witness. This case involves former NAFCO CEO Hanan Abdul-Wahab Aludiba and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni, who face charges related to causing substantial financial loss to the state, estimated at over GH¢50 million.

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About GH¢70 million was transferred from NAFCO accounts into accounts belonging to SAWTINA Enterprise, a company owned by Mr Tieku-Apawu.

According to the prosecution, led by the Deputy Attorney-General, investigations conducted by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) uncovered a pattern of suspicious transactions. Approximately GH¢70 million was allegedly transferred from NAFCO accounts into those of SAWTINA Enterprise, a company owned by Mr. Tieku-Apawu. These transactions reportedly occurred over a four-year period, between October 2019 and September 2023, through Ecobank and Republic Bank.

The prosecution's narrative suggests that Mr. Tieku-Apawu approached the former CEO in 2019 seeking approval to supply food items, despite regulations stipulating that only licensed companies should engage in such dealings. It is alleged that SAWTINA Enterprise received over GH¢78 million from NAFCO, with only about 20% representing genuine food supplies. The remaining funds are believed to have been diverted to Aludiba, his businesses, his wife's enterprises, and the acquisition of properties.

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Mr Tieku-Apawu approached Aludiba in 2019 seeking approval to supply food items to NAFCO, although regulations permitted only licensed buying companies to engage in such transactions.

From Ghana's perspective, this trial is crucial as it probes alleged corruption and the misuse of public funds within a state institution. The involvement of James Tieku-Apawu as a key witness is a pivotal moment, potentially shedding light on the intricate financial dealings that led to the alleged losses. The court's decision to grant bail to the accused—Aludiba GH¢60 million and his wife GH¢3.5 million—underscores the gravity of the charges. The stringent bail conditions, including passport surrender and regular reporting to EOCO, reflect the state's commitment to ensuring the accused face justice. This case is emblematic of the ongoing efforts in Ghana to combat economic crime and hold public officials accountable for their actions.

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SAWTINA Enterprise received more than GH¢78 million from NAFCO, but only about 20 per cent represented genuine food supplies.