A forensic audit has found Dennis Edward Aboagye, former Executive Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation (IMCC) Secretariat, and a former Accountant responsible for financial irregularities. The audit report, submitted to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), identified Mr. Aboagye as culpable for various financial breaches during his tenure. This development follows Mr. Aboagye's recent public statements challenging the allegations against him.
The IMCC Secretariat stated that the audit covered operations between August 1, 2022, and February 2, 2025. It revealed that Mr. Aboagye and the former Accountant were personally and jointly responsible for irregular transactions. These included authorizing or facilitating payments that did not comply with approved procedures. A significant finding was Mr. Aboagye's alleged failure to disclose two bank accounts, one of which recorded transactions amounting to GHS 102,256,802.69 and was not included in official handing-over notes.
This situation highlights ongoing concerns about financial accountability within public institutions in Ghana. The country has a history of audit findings revealing mismanagement and irregularities, often leading to calls for stronger oversight and enforcement. The involvement of EOCO underscores the seriousness with which these allegations are being treated, reflecting a broader effort to combat corruption and ensure prudent use of public funds. Such cases can impact investor confidence and public trust in government agencies.
The IMCC Secretariat explicitly rejected Mr. Aboagye's claims of political targeting or pressure to provide information against current government officials. "For clarity, no such directive or instruction was issued. At no point was such alleged disclosure made," the Secretariat stated. It also dismissed assertions that the audit was motivated by the termination of his appointment, emphasizing that administrative and financial reviews are standard governance practices.
The implications of these findings are significant for public sector governance and accountability. The ongoing investigation by EOCO will determine the legal consequences for those found responsible. This case will be closely watched by the public and financial markets, as it could set a precedent for how financial irregularities in state institutions are handled. Decision-makers will likely face increased pressure to implement stricter financial controls and ensure transparency across all government bodies.
Mr. Aboagye was arrested by EOCO on July 12, 2026, upon his return to Ghana. He was later granted bail of GHS 50 million with three sureties, two of whom must justify their sureties. EOCO is investigating Mr. Aboagye and former IMCC Accountant Gerald Appiah for alleged offences including conspiracy to steal, stealing, using public office for profit, causing financial loss to the state, dissipation of public funds, defrauding by false pretence, and money laundering. Mr. Aboagye has disputed the GHS 55 million figure initially associated with the allegations, suggesting investigators questioned him over transactions involving approximately GHS 9 million, GHS 5,000, and a procurement matter of GHS 5.2 million. The IMCC Secretariat, however, maintains its position based on the forensic audit's findings.