By Benard Worlali Awumee
Keta, (V/R), April 11, GNA - The Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) has declared its plan to initiate a comprehensive inquiry into allegations regarding the purported unlawful sale of land recovered through the Keta Sea Defence Project within the Keta Municipality.
The announcement was made by Mr. James Gunu, who serves as the Volta Regional Minister, during his concluding comments on Thursday, April 11, 2025. This came after confirming Mr. Wisdom Seade’s appointment as the new Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Keta Municipality at an event held in the Assembly Hall of the Keta Municipal Assembly.
Mr. Gunu stated that initiating the investigation has become essential because of increasing public worry and observed discrepancies related to the sale of parts of the reclaimed land to individual persons and businesses.
The transactions under scrutiny primarily took place during the term of the preceding administration from 2021 to 2024.
The residents and those involved have raised significant concerns regarding how the land was allocated and sold, pointing out issues with transparency and proper procedures being followed.
There have been widespread complaints and allegations that parcels of land earmarked for critical public infrastructure projects such as schools and sports facilities, have instead been allocated or sold to private individuals for personal development. These actions have sparked discontent and agitation among residents of the municipality.
Mr. Gunu highlighted that the inquiry into the land transactions will be considered a top priority for the incoming government. This initiative aims to rebuild public trust and steer the municipality towards accountable management and enduring progress.
"Now that the Assembly Members have ratified the President's nominee, the actual work starts," Mr. Gunu stated.
“There are pressing issues we must address in Keta, and one of the most urgent is the improper sale of reclaimed lands. The Volta Regional Coordinating Council will soon launch a comprehensive investigation into this matter.”
Mr. Gunu also disclosed that the investigation will be carried out in partnership with traditional leaders and other pertinent entities to guarantee an open and comprehensive procedure.
"The Keta Municipal Assembly will collaborate closely with traditional authorities, community influencers, and pertinent organizations to probe and shed light on the matter concerning the irregular disposal of lands recovered through the Sea Defence Project," he stated.
The reclaimed area under discussion was developed from 1998 to 2004 as part of the Keta Sea Defence Initiative. This project encompassed sections of the Keta Lagoon along with nearby low-lying regions, transforming them into resettlement sites for those affected by tidal surges and coastal erosion. Spanning over 150 hectares, this expanse encompasses settlements like Kedzi, Vodza, Adzido, and central Keta, with the principal reclaimed zone located within Keta Central.
Some Assembly Members and residents who were present at the confirmation ceremony welcomed the minister’s declaration. They believe the investigation will help uncover the truth and ensure accountability.
Mr. Gabriel Dzikunu, who serves as the Assembly Member for Keta Central and represents the concerned area, spoke to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) and voiced his backing for the proposed investigation.
“The issue of the Keta reclaimed lands has been a contentious topic in our deliberations over the years during our sittings. The decision by the VRCC to investigate the matter is a step in the right direction. We need to bring order, transparency, and fairness to how public lands are managed in our municipality,” Mr. Dzikunu stated.
The VRCC’s involvement is anticipated to shed light on the dispute and possibly result in reclaiming any territories rumored to have been improperly assigned or traded. People, especially those impacted, will be keeping a close eye on the investigation’s findings, with hopes that fairness will be upheld.
GNA
MA/KOA
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