The state has withdrawn criminal charges against former National Food and Buffer Stock Company Limited (NAFCO) Chief Executive Officer Hanan Abdul-Wahab Aludiba and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni, in an ongoing GH¢78 million alleged loss case. Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai announced the withdrawal in court on Tuesday, May 5, citing the discovery of fresh evidence and the aim to ensure a fair trial, though the couple was re-arrested shortly after their discharge.
Context of the Case
The case revolves around allegations concerning the purchase and supply of foodstuffs procured under the national school feeding programme. Prosecutors initially estimated a financial loss of approximately GH¢78 million to the state.
This development is part of a larger legal process involving several other accused individuals and companies who remain on trial.
Withdrawal and Re-arrest
Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai formally communicated the decision to discontinue proceedings against Mr. Aludiba and his wife in court on the scheduled adjourned date.
Following the announcement, the court officially struck out the charges, leading to the discharge of both Mr. Aludiba and his wife. Both had previously entered pleas of not guilty to all charges leveled against them.
Dr. Srem-Sai later elaborated on social media, explaining that the withdrawal was a strategic move prompted by new evidence. He emphasized that the decision was intended to guarantee a fair and speedier trial for each accused person, aligning with constitutional provisions.
However, the legal reprieve was short-lived. Shortly after their discharge from the court, Mr. Aludiba and his wife were re-arrested. Specific details surrounding this subsequent arrest were not immediately available.
Legal Arguments and Procedural Challenges
Earlier proceedings in the case saw the prosecution file witness statements on April 24, 2026. Subsequently, the prosecution sought to revert to earlier statements submitted in December 2025, a move that ignited significant legal debate among the parties.
The trial also encountered a dispute regarding the participation of an Assistant Staff Officer from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) within the prosecution team. Defence lawyers challenged the officer’s involvement, questioning its legality and asserting that prosecutorial authority must strictly adhere to the Law Officers Act.
Presiding judge Justice Achibonga addressed this challenge by ordering the temporary removal of the EOCO officer from the proceedings. The judge further directed the Attorney-General’s Department to present evidence of proper authorization for the officer’s participation.
Ongoing Trial and Future Strategy
While charges against the former NAFCO CEO and his wife have been withdrawn, the case is set to continue for the remaining accused individuals and entities.
The prosecution is expected to adjust its strategy in light of the recent developments, particularly the withdrawal and subsequent re-arrest concerning Mr. Aludiba and his wife.
Implications and What to Watch
The withdrawal and immediate re-arrest of key figures in a high-profile corruption case raises questions about prosecutorial strategy and the handling of evidence. This move signals a potential significant shift in the state’s approach to securing convictions in the GH¢78 million alleged loss case.
Readers and industry stakeholders will be watching closely to see the nature of the fresh evidence, the grounds for the re-arrest, and how the prosecution proceeds against the remaining defendants. The adherence to fair trial principles and the resolution of procedural challenges will be critical in the upcoming stages of the legal proceedings.
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