Prominent Ghanaian figure, Prof. Emeritus Stephen Adei, has vocally refuted claims attributed to him on social media that cast disparaging remarks towards President Nana Akufo-Addo. Prof Adei, an esteemed economist, administrator, and author, with a notable history as the Board Chairman of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Director General and Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), found himself at the center of a controversy following a post on X (formerly known as Twitter).
The contentious post, circulated by a user named @nyavorx on March 29, 2024, alleged that Prof Adei criticized the President, suggesting the country would be at risk if governed by another leader with similar traits. The quote falsely attributed to Adei read: “If we do not REVIEW this CONSTITUTION and in the unlikely event we get another power drunk and autocratic man like Nana Addo, as for me I’d have visited my grave.”
In a swift response, Prof Adei clarified his position, emphasizing that the statement in question does not reflect his views or choice of words. He articulated his rebuttal with precision, underscoring the malicious intent behind the fabrication. “I want to state categorically that this is false news. I have never made such a statement,” Prof Adei asserted, addressing the misinformation head-on.
He further lamented the mischievous intent of the individual responsible for the post, which not only sought to create political discord but also insensitively alluded to his death. Prof Adei, however, remained undisturbed by such implications, stating his faith and readiness for any eventuality while humorously noting his potential to outlive the author of the deceitful post.
Moreover, Prof Adei took the opportunity to highlight his professional decorum and respect for the office of the President. He clarified that he would never describe President Akufo-Addo or any leader using derogatory terms such as “power drunk” and “autocratic.” Additionally, he defended the President against such characterizations and expressed his belief in the limitations set by the Ghanaian Constitution against autocracy.
Given that the false statement was purported to have been made in an interview at Joy FM – as suggested by the background of the misleading post – Prof Adei called upon the media house to ensure his rebuttal receives the necessary attention. He urged them to aid in rectifying the misinformation that had been spread under their banner.
