Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, has urged an end to the friction between Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), emphasizing the need for unity and support for firefighters.

The dispute was triggered after ADO1 Alex King Nartey, a public relations officer of the GNFS, criticized the minister in an interview, accusing him of undermining firefighters during their response to the Adum Market blaze.

His remarks sparked tension, prompting the GNFS to issue a formal apology to Dr. Amoakohene on March 25, 2025.

Despite the apology, Rev Ntim Fordjour insists fire personnel should not face intimidation or unfair treatment over the matter.

“All politicians are entreated to serve in humility. Egoistic whims and caprices of a populist regional minister cannot be allowed to demoralise and victimise our gallant fire officers who professionally and most patriotically risk their lives daily to extinguish fires in our country,” he remarked.

The Assin North legislator maintained that the apology from the fire service should mark the conclusion of the matter and warned against punitive measures against any personnel.

“Whatever happened, let’s move on! This letter should settle it all. No further disciplinary action will be countenanced. No fire officer will be allowed to suffer any unfair termination, transfer or demotion as a result of the ego of a politician who should rather be supporting and resourcing our fire officers to discharge their duties. Ghana National Fire Service is woefully underfunded and misunderstood,” he stated in a social media post.

His remarks follow reports that ADO1 Nartey could face disciplinary sanctions, including a potential reassignment.

Rev Ntim Fordjour reiterated the importance of prioritizing the welfare of fire service personnel, urging political figures to focus on improving resources for emergency responders rather than engaging in actions that dampen morale.