Former Education and Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, is under investigation by Ghana’s National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) over several projects undertaken during his tenure in government. This was confirmed by the Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, during a recent interview.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh served as Education Minister from 2017 to 2021 and subsequently as Minister of Energy. The investigations focus on his administrative decisions and project implementations during those years, particularly surrounding procurement practices and high-value contracts.
One of the major issues being examined is the controversial mathematical sets procurement deal under the Education Ministry. The procurement was part of a nationwide distribution to students ahead of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), but questions were raised about the cost, transparency, and value for money associated with the contract.
“He was a minister for Energy and Education…so definitely, we have projects that were undertaken during his time. And so he would definitely be answering questions in respect of that,” said Dr. Srem Sai.
Although the specific details of all projects under investigation have not been made public, Dr. Srem Sai hinted at a broader review of contract awards, procurement processes, and expenditure during NAPO’s leadership across the two ministries.
Dr. Srem Sai was clear in stating that the investigation does not imply guilt or wrongdoing on the part of Dr. Opoku Prempeh.
“You will not be prosecuted unless there is evidence that you were complicit in some of the things you undertook,” he explained. “The fact that you’re a minister at the time doesn’t mean that you will be criminally liable for anything.”
He emphasized the importance of due process, adding that many former and current government appointees have been cooperating with investigators in similar probes without drawing public attention.
“I appreciate the demeanour of a lot of the government appointees… they are respecting the process. Some people have been picked up or invited, but they’re quietly allowing the law to take its course.”
The Deputy Attorney General cited the example of former Railway Minister Joe Ghartey, who was also invited for questioning during the investigation into the Sky Train project. He was later cleared after explaining his role.
This, according to Dr. Srem Sai, should remind the public not to conflate ministerial oversight with personal liability unless proven by solid evidence.
“There are things that can happen in a ministry which may not be your doing,” he noted.
The news of the investigation has generated mixed reactions. While some see it as a welcome step toward accountability, others have called for transparency in the findings and timely updates from relevant authorities