Suhuyini finds Lands Ministry’s inconsistent response to land guards disclosure baffling

Suhuyini finds Lands Ministry's inconsistent response to land guards disclosure baffling

Alhassan Suhuyini, Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale North constituency and ranking member of Parliament’s Lands and Forestry Committee, says he is perplexed by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources’ inconsistent responses to claims that the government hires a known land guard to protect and reclaim its lands.

Mr Suhuyini stated on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News that “every time information comes from the Ministry, it leaves one with many more questions than answers.”

He stated that the Ministry’s comments contradicted the earlier revelation of its Chief Director, Professor Patrick Agbesinyale.

Mr Suhuyini further hinted that the Ministry is using the quiet tool, allowing its Chief Director to react to all concerns emerging from the revelation, implying, “You brought it out, so deal with it yourself.”

“I wonder why this matter is left for only the Chief Director because the impression around the Ministry is that he went and disclosed it, so he should deal with it.”

Prof. Agbesinyale allegedly informed Parliament’s Lands and Forestry Committee that even the police and military hired a land guard to recover and safeguard government lands for a price, in violation of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act.

However, in a hearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, Prof. Patrick Agbesinyale rejected the findings and stated that he objects to the allegations levelled against him.

He maintains the charges are false and do not reflect his comments before the Lands and Forestry Committee.

“I think land guard unfortunately is a terminology that all of us don’t want to be associated with, at least we know what land guards are. They are illegal entities that operate and engage in all forms of criminal activities, I can’t imagine saying government uses land guards,” he explained.