Gifty Oware-Mensah and Osei Assibey Antwi absent as court adjourns NSA corruption trial

The High Court in Accra has adjourned indefinitely the criminal cases involving the former Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi, and his former deputy, Gifty Oware-Mensah, following their absence from court during Friday’s sitting.

In the case of Mr. Assibey Antwi, his legal counsel informed the court that his client had been directed to report to police investigators in Kumasi, where he was currently assisting with ongoing investigations.

The lawyer further disclosed that the defence team had not yet been served with the charge sheet, which outlines the specific allegations against the accused.

For Mrs. Oware-Mensah, her lawyers presented a two-day medical excuse duty to the court, explaining that she was unwell and unable to attend proceedings. The court accepted the explanation and noted the absence accordingly.

As a result, the presiding judge adjourned both cases sine die (without a fixed date), pending further notice from the court’s registry.

Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi, who previously served as Executive Director of the National Service Authority before its transition from the National Service Secretariat, is facing 14 counts, including causing financial loss to the state, stealing, and money laundering.

Prosecutors allege that the offences resulted in the loss of over GHS600 million to the state through irregular procurement and financial transactions.

His former deputy, Gifty Oware-Mensah, is also facing multiple charges, including stealing, money laundering, and abuse of office. She is alleged to have played a role in the misappropriation of funds meant for National Service operations and projects.

The case has attracted significant public attention, as it involves former top officials of the National Service Authority.