Former Northern Region Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, did not appear before the seven-member committee established to investigate a leaked tape involving top police and party officials discussing the removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The committee, chaired by Samuel Atta Akyea, held its first session on August 24 to hear from the first witness.
In a letter submitted by Bugri Naabu’s lawyer, Raymond Dornyo of Crabbe, Crabbe & Co, his absence was attributed to ill-health, seeking permission to be excused.
However, Atta Akyea expressed dissatisfaction with the reason given, suggesting that only a serious medical condition would justify the absence.
Atta Akyea emphasized the importance of witnesses respecting the committee’s timetable and urged all those invited to adhere to the schedule.
He underscored the committee’s focus on time consciousness and stated that all witnesses, including Bugri Naabu, should respect it.
The special committee was established by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, in response to a complaint from the Minority.
The committee’s mandate includes investigating the authenticity of the leaked audio recording, the conspiracy to remove the current IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, and any other matters contained in the recording.
It is also tasked with recommending appropriate sanctions for individuals found culpable and suggesting necessary reforms.
The leaked audio recording features voices purportedly belonging to top officials from the Ghana Police Service and the NPP discussing the IGP and his alleged political affiliations.
The officials are heard discussing the possibility of removing the IGP before the 2024 general elections. The voice identified as belonging to Bugri Naabu has denied recording the conversation.