A one-day communications workshop held in the Bono Region has triggered intense political debate, following allegations that the event cost as much as GH₵700,000—an amount critics argue raises serious concerns about priorities and the use of public-linked institutional support.

The workshop, held at the Tyco City Hotel in Sunyani, brought together an estimated 700 communicators affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Bono region.

According to widely circulated claims, each participant allegedly received GH₵10,000 as part of the programme. While these figures remain unverified by any official documentation, they have fueled public criticism and partisan exchanges across political lines.

The event is said to have been organised with the involvement of state-associated institutions, including the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) and the Bui Power Authority, alongside a group identified as GoldBod.

This has prompted critics—particularly from opposition circles—to question whether there is a blurred line between party activities and the use of state resources.

The controversy deepened after outspoken political activist Abubakar Yakubu, popularly known as Baba Amando, publicly challenged the narrative surrounding the workshop.

He posed a series of questions asserting that the gathering indeed took place, involving NDC communicators, and was attended by key party and government figures.

Among those reportedly expected to attend was NDC National Communications Officer Sammy Gyamfi, who was absent; with other officials stepping in to lead the programme alongside regional authorities.

Critics have also pointed to what they describe as a troubling silence from major state institutions, including the military, judiciary, and sections of the media, arguing that the allegations—if substantiated—would represent a significant case of state capture and misuse of influence.

However, no formal investigations or official responses have been announced to validate or dismiss these claims.

On the other hand, individuals connected to the programme have defended its purpose and relevance. Eric Adjei, Chief Executive Officer of NEIP and a deputy communications officer within the NDC in the Bono Region, described the workshop as a strategic training session aimed at strengthening communication capacity.

According to him, the event provided a platform for professional development, equipping participants with modern tools in messaging, media engagement, and public communication.

He noted that such initiatives are essential in enhancing transparency and improving how political organisations engage citizens in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Historically, both major political parties in Ghana—the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP)—have invested in building strong communication networks, especially ahead of election cycles. Workshops and training programmes are often organised to sharpen messaging, counter misinformation, and maintain grassroots engagement.

However, the scale of the alleged expenditure in this case has set it apart, drawing heightened scrutiny.

Bono Police Invitation To NPP Communications Officer

In a related development that has further heightened political tension in the region, the Bono Regional Police Command has invited the NPP Sunyani East Constituency Communications Officer, Abubakar Yakubu—also known as Baba Amando—to assist in a cyber-related investigation.

According to Yakubu, he received a missed call around 12:37 on p.m. on Thursday and returned it later in the afternoon, at which point an officer identified as Obed informed him of the invitation.

He indicated that he would not be able to honour the request immediately but agreed to report to the police on Monday, April 13, 2026.

Yakubu, who is also contesting for the position of Bono Regional Communications Officer of the NPP, is known for his active presence on radio and social media, where he frequently publishes political commentary. It is widely believed that some of his online publications—possibly including commentary on the NDC workshop—may form part of the police’s line of inquiry.

He is expected to honour the invitation in the company of his legal representatives and is unlikely to disclose his sources if questioned, given his background as a writer and political communicator.

The NPP has dispatched a team including the General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong and the National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye to assist him.