The Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Nana Agyemang Badu II, has urged President Mahama not to hesitate in investigating the $58 million National Cathedral scandal and prosecuting those found culpable.
He made the call while referencing the ongoing legal proceedings involving the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Dormahene stated that if Wontumi is facing the full rigours of the law, then clergy and chiefs found guilty should also be held accountable.
The $58 million National Cathedral scandal has been a central focus of the “Operation Recover All Loot” initiative, formed after the elections to retrieve misappropriated state funds. The team’s Chairman, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, had earlier stated that the clergy involved were misled by former President Akufo-Addo.
“Don’t hesitate when it comes to accountability. I know you’re still working. The $58 million National Cathedral pit—investigate it, whether those involved are pastors or chiefs. We expect you to pursue this regardless of who is involved. If Wontumi is facing the law, no pastor or chief is bigger than Wontumi,” DormaaHene said.
He also urged President Mahama to ensure due process is followed in addressing the allegations against Wontumi.
“If someone does anything wrong, apply the law and bring the person to book. Even me, Agyemang Badu—if you hear I have committed an offence, bring me to book so that the right thing is done. But if no wrongdoing has occurred, then don’t target the individual,” he added.
Chairman Wontumi has reportedly been transferred to the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) headquarters after spending over 48 hours in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) due to his failure to meet a GH₵50 million bail condition, which required two sureties.
He is currently under investigation for offences including fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering.
Deputy Attorney General, Justice Srem-Sai, confirmed in a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account that EOCO is handling the case. He added that asset recovery efforts are underway to secure suspected proceeds of crime.