Ablakwa exposes ADB’s $750K ‘Midnight Contract’ amid transition controversy

North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has sounded the alarm over what he describes as “reckless and unpatriotic” actions by officials in the outgoing Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration.

He claims intercepted memos reveal a surge in last-minute contract approvals and expedited payments ahead of the January 7, 2025, government transition.

In a December 26 Facebook post, Mr. Ablakwa highlighted the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) as a case in point. He alleged that the bank’s board recently approved an electronic servicing agreement worth $750,000 (approximately GHS12 million) with Virtual Security Africa, despite ongoing negotiations and the contract being in draft form.

According to Mr. Ablakwa, ADB is under significant political pressure to make full payment by December 27, 2024, even though the deal has not undergone standard auditing procedures.

He also noted that this rush to commit public funds is happening despite clear warnings from the President-elect’s Transition Team against last-minute financial obligations—a stance similar to that taken by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during the 2016 transition period.

Mr. Ablakwa cautioned public officials against succumbing to political pressure, warning that those who authorize “dubious transactions” will face consequences under the incoming administration. “For God and Country. Ghana First,” he concluded.

The revelations have sparked widespread public outrage, with many demanding immediate investigations and accountability for those involved in the alleged midnight deals.