Member of parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has stated that president Akufo-Addo is using his position and authority to gain control over key institutions, processes, and resources of the state for personal gains.

Ablakwa's accusation stems from the president's failure to intervene in the sale of hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong.

In a recent statement on his platform, Ablakwa, who organized the "Hands off our Hotels Demonstration," criticized President Akufo-Addo for not halting the sale despite opposition from organized labor and widespread public dissent.

Ablakwa asserted that this inaction solidifies President Akufo-Addo's role as the architect of systemic state capture in Ghana.

“President Akufo-Addo refused to stop the sale of our SSNIT hotels when he met organized labour yesterday [Tuesday, June 25]. Akufo-Addo’s appointed SSNIT board chair, Elizabeth Ohene is also boldly justifying the stinky deal despite overwhelming opposition from Ghanaians and the protest of labour representatives on her board.

“It’s now confirmed beyond any scintilla of doubt — President Akufo-Addo is the chief-architect of all the putrefying State Capture. It’s time to declare our own version of what just happened in Kenya. Watch out for the big announcement soon.”

SSNIT Board Chair Elizabeth Ohene responded to the controversy, acknowledging the political sensitivity heightened by Bryan Acheampong's involvement as a government official and businessman.

President Akufo-Addo refused to stop the sale of our SSNIT hotels when he met organized labour yesterday.Akufo-Addo’s appointed SSNIT board chair, Elizabeth Ohene is also boldly justifying the stinky deal despite overwhelming opposition from Ghanaians and the protest of labour…— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) June 26, 2024

She defended the transparency of the sale process, pointing out that it was publicly advertised in major newspapers.

Ablakwa further contested the suitability of Bryan Acheampong as a buyer, citing alleged financial losses at his Rock City Hotels. Acheampong challenged Ablakwa to substantiate these claims, offering to give away properties if evidence of financial instability could be proven.

The dispute intensified with Ablakwa claiming to have obtained documents from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) indicating financial difficulties at Rock City Hotel, which Acheampong vehemently denied, citing pending tax filings as evidence of ongoing financial assessment.

Throughout the exchange, Ablakwa maintained his stance on accountability, emphasizing that his oversight role as a lawmaker was not motivated by personal gain or material rewards.