Nitiwul’s comments on AMA exercise do not reflect conduct expected of former Defence Minister – NHIA DCEO

National Health Identification Authority (NHIA) Deputy Chief Executive Officer Anatu Anne Seidu Bogobiri has questioned the manner in which former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul has commented on the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s relocation exercise involving members of the Konkomba community.

Madam Bogobiri said Nitiwul, having previously occupied one of the country’s most sensitive ministerial positions, should have approached the matter with greater circumspection.

“With respect, the tone and framing of the remarks are unfortunate and do not reflect the circumspection expected of a former Minister of State, particularly one who has held the sensitive portfolio of Defence.”

Her comments follow a video in circulation in which Nitiwul addressed the relocation exercise affecting some members of the Konkomba community.

While acknowledging his desire to stand with those affected, Madama Bogobiri warned against commentary that could be interpreted as giving an ethnic character to an administrative exercise.

“At a time when Accra remains a cosmopolitan home for all Ghanaians, public commentary on an exercise that affects any ethnic group must be handled with utmost care.”

She said such framing could have consequences beyond the immediate relocation exercise.

“Remarks that appear to introduce an ethnic dimension to a city management exercise have the potential to heighten tension and be misinterpreted, which is not in the interest of our national cohesion.”

The issue centres on the AMA’s ongoing efforts to reorganise parts of Accra, including areas occupied by traders in Agbogbloshie. The Assembly has been pursuing plans to relocate some occupants from areas earmarked for redevelopment and a proposed 24-hour economy market.

Rather than framing the matter around ethnicity, Madam Bogobiri said political leaders could use their influence to secure practical support for the affected traders.

“There were more constructive ways to advocate for the affected persons. For instance, the occasion could have been used to appeal to the AMA for humane and orderly relocation processes, and to lobby for economic opportunities for them, including priority consideration in the 24-hour economy markets initiative and other livelihood support programmes.”

She said Nitiwul’s solidarity with the affected community was understandable but insisted that engagement with the relevant authorities would be a more constructive approach.

“It is understandable that as a leader, Hon. Nitiwul seeks to show solidarity with his people and assure them of his support. That is commendable. However, such advocacy is more effective when carried out through engagement with the relevant authorities and with language that promotes unity and stability in Accra.”

Madam Bogobiri further appealed to public officials, both past and present, to recognize the potential impact of their public statements on national cohesion.

“I urge that we all, especially former and current public office holders, carry ourselves in a manner worthy of our positions and continue to promote peace, tolerance and national unity.”