In recent days, disturbing claims have been making the rounds in some media circles, seeking to drag the hard-earned reputation of former Director-General of the National Service Authority (NSA), Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi, into disrepute.
The allegation, drawn from what appears to be a misrepresentation in the Auditor-General’s Report, suggests that Mr. Osei Assibey allegedly received an unbelievable GHC516,000 every month as a volunteer, amounting to GHC8.26 million between 2023 and 2024.
This claim is completely untrue and misleading.
Claims
It is important to point out that as a former National Service Personnel who served within the system, I find such claims as baseless and deeply unfair to a man whose time at the NSA was marked by honesty, innovation, and visible transformation.
Mr. Osei Assibey’s leadership was never about personal benefit. Besides, it was about service to country and creating opportunities for the youth of Ghana.
The level of his transparent management style and tireless work ethic were evident in every initiative he led, from the digital reforms that promoted accountability to the numerous development projects that empowered service personnel across the nation.
To suggest that such a leader could pocket allowances meant for over 700 personnel is simply absurd and an insult to the intelligence of those who know how the NSA operates. The Authority, during his tenure, had one of the most transparent and disciplined financial systems in the public sector, with multiple levels of checks and supervision.
There was simply no room for such misconduct to occur unnoticed.
Falsehood
Instead of being tainted by falsehoods, Mr. Osei Assibey should be acknowledged for his selfless dedication to national growth. He redefined the essence of national service by introducing programmes that equipped personnel with entrepreneurial and employable skills, preparing them for life beyond their service year.
I must be quick to reiterate that his partnerships with public and private institutions opened doors for many young graduates who might otherwise have been unemployed.
These baseless allegations, therefore, should be seen for what they are, an attempt to undermine the legacy of a visionary public servant.
The truth is that Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi led with integrity, compassion, and a genuine desire to see Ghanaian youth thrive. He deserves our appreciation, not condemnation.
The writer is a Former National Service Personnel, Ho.
