The Supreme Court of Ghana has rejected a final review application submitted by Assistant Commissioner of Police and practicing lawyer, Mr. Akolgo Yakubu Ayamga.
The application was pertaining to a complex property fraud conspiracy case revolving around a high-value beachfront property in Busua, Western Region.
The case, initially adjudicated on October 25, 2022, by His Lordship Justice Dr. Richmond Osei Hwere J of the High Court in Sekondi, saw Mr. Ayamga initiating legal action seeking an eviction order for the property.
He claimed to have purchased the property from an ex-girlfriend of the legitimate owner, Mr. Bram Rodenburg. However, subsequent legal proceedings revealed the ownership transfer to be fraudulent, with the legitimate owner, represented by attorney Ms. Georgina Ama Eghan, successfully proving the transaction’s illegitimacy.
During cross-examination, it came to light that a close associate of Mr. Ayamga, Sheila Abayie-Buckman, had drafted the Power of Attorney used in the fraudulent transaction. Additionally, crucial payment evidence was not presented by Ayamga or his ex-girlfriend, further undermining the legitimacy of the sale.
Consequently, the High Court nullified the sale, reinstating ownership to Mr. Rodenburg, and criticized Ayamga for his involvement in the fraudulent conspiracy, highlighting his position as a senior police officer and lawyer.
Despite appeals and subsequent review applications, including representation by Dr. Justice Srem-Sai of Praetorium Solicitors in Accra, the Supreme Court upheld its earlier decision, citing a lack of merit in Ayamga’s submissions.
Speaking after the verdict, Ms. Georgina Ama Eghan expressed her satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of the legal process in upholding justice.
She stated, “I’m elated. I’m very happy because it shows that there is democracy in Ghana and the law works.” She further reiterated her confidence in Ghana’s legal system to continuously uphold justice, expressing readiness for any further appeals by Ayamga.
The verdict marks a significant legal setback for Ayamga in the high-profile property fraud case, underlining the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting property rights in Ghana.