No Time for Smoke and Mirrors: Mahama responds to suspicious flights allegations

President John Mahama has responded sharply to critics amid a swirling controversy surrounding alleged suspicious flights landing at Kotoka International Airport in Accra. Just 90 days into his new administration, Mahama dismissed the accusations as “games of smoke and mirrors,” suggesting a deliberate attempt to distract the public from pressing issues.

The controversy erupted following a press conference held by the Assin South Member of Parliament, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, who alleged that two aircraft landed at the airport under questionable circumstances. Fordjour’s claims raised concerns about potential illicit activities and quickly garnered significant media attention.

However, the Mahama administration and many Ghanaians believe that the allegations are part of a larger strategy by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) to undermine the new government.

Accusations have been levied against the NPP, suggesting a campaign of misinformation designed to deflect attention from shortcomings experienced during their time in power. One prime example cited is the ongoing investigation into missing Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) containers, a matter that casts a shadow over the NPP’s past governance.

In an effort to address the allegations directly and transparently, President Mahama initially extended an invitation to Rev. Ntim Fordjour to collaborate with the National Security apparatus. The President emphasised the importance of a thorough and objective investigation to uncover the truth behind the alleged suspicious flights.

However, the situation has taken a dramatic turn in recent days. Reports indicate that state security agencies have repeatedly requested Fordjour’s assistance in providing evidence to substantiate his claims. Despite these requests, the Assin South MP has reportedly failed to provide concrete evidence to support his allegations.

This lack of cooperation has reportedly led to increasing frustration within the National Security agencies. Coupled with what they perceive as a failure to cooperate in the investigation, this prompted a recent attempt by National Security to arrest the MP. The attempted arrest underscores the seriousness with which the government is treating the matter and their apparent frustration with the lack of evidence presented by Fordjour.

The unfolding saga has fueled political tensions, with accusations and counter-accusations flying between the ruling party and the opposition. Supporters of the Mahama administration see the allegations as a politically motivated attempt to destabilise the new government. They argue that the focus should be on addressing critical national issues rather than engaging in what they perceive as baseless distractions.

Speaking at the Ghana Military Academy graduation event yesterday, April 11, 2025,
the President said that his government is focused on delivering tangible results for the Ghanaian people and don’t have time to engage in games of smoke and mirrors.

President Mahama’s strong condemnation of the allegations and his call for transparency highlight the significance of the matter. While he initially welcomed Fordjour’s collaboration, the subsequent attempts to arrest the MP suggest a shift in strategy, possibly due to a perceived lack of good faith on the part of the Assin South MP.

Moving forward, the public awaits further developments in the investigation. Whether the allegations of suspicious flights are substantiated or dismissed, the controversy underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in government and the need for responsible and evidence-based political discourse.

The coming weeks will undoubtedly shed more light on the circumstances surrounding these alleged flights and the motives behind the unfolding political drama.

Please enjoy Wahjahka Man by Jimmy Cliff.

Anthony Obeng Afrane