A massive payroll discrepancy has been uncovered at the National Service Authority (NSA), revealing a staggering 81,885 suspected “ghost names” on the authority’s payroll.
The government announced the findings in a press release dated February 12, 2025, highlighting a significant difference between the actual number of active service personnel and the payroll data submitted for 2024.
According to official figures, the NSA currently has 98,145 active personnel. However, the previous management of the Authority presented a list of 180,030 names for allowance payments in 2024 – a difference of 81,885.
“This figure is 81,885 less than the 180,030 names presented by the previous management of the Authority for allowance payment in 2024,” the government statement read. The discovery points to a potential large-scale misuse of public funds.
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The revelation comes on the heels of an investigative report by “The Fourth Estate,” which brought the payroll anomalies to light.
Reacting swiftly, President Mahama has ordered an immediate investigation by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) into the operations of the NSA.
President Mahama emphasized the need for stringent verification processes moving forward.
“We must ensure that only verified personnel are included in the payroll,” he stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability within the Authority.
SEE ALSO: Mahama Orders Investigation into National Service Authority “Ghost Names” Scandal
The investigation aims to determine the source and extent of the fraudulent activity, identify those responsible, and recover any misappropriated funds.
The discovery is likely to prompt a major overhaul of the NSA’s payroll system and internal controls.
