By Accra, Ghana – April 30, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau, alongside his wife Angela Adjei Boateng, and two others, have pleaded not guilty to charges of misappropriating $7 million (approximately GH¢49 million) in state funds.
The case, which has gripped public attention in Ghana, centers on allegations of fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy, raising fresh concerns about corruption in the country’s public sector.
According to a charge sheet filed in the High Court, Adu-Boahene is accused of dishonestly appropriating the funds under the guise of procuring a cyber-defense system for the Republic of Ghana. The prosecution, led by the Attorney General’s office, alleges that the funds were funneled through Advantage Solutions Limited—a company linked to Adu-Boahene—and used for personal investments rather than the intended state project.
Angela Adjei Boateng faces charges of conspiracy to steal and using public office for profit, while Mildred Donkor and Advantage Solutions Limited are implicated in money laundering and related offenses.
The news broke on April 30, 2025, via a widely circulated post by GHOne TV on X, which included a striking image of Adu-Boahene speaking at an event, overlaid with the headline: “Adu-Boahene, wife and two others plead not guilty to charges over misappropriation of $7 million state funds.”
The post quickly sparked reactions online, with users like @edwinappiah56 noting, “All of this will be determined in court 🙃,” while @MrCTamakloe commented, “This guy is in serious trouble.”
A Case Rooted in Controversy
The allegations against Adu-Boahene are particularly significant given Ghana’s ongoing struggle with cybercrime and corruption. According to a 2008 Internet Crime Survey, Ghana ranks 7th globally for cybercrime, with cyberfraud being the most prevalent form. The country has lost over $200 million to cybercrime between 2016 and 2018 alone, per the Ghana Police Service.
Adu-Boahene’s role at the National Signals Bureau, a body tasked with safeguarding Ghana’s cyber infrastructure, places him at the heart of these concerns. The prosecution argues that his alleged actions not only defrauded the state but also undermined national security by failing to deliver the promised cyber-defense system.
Adding fuel to the fire, Adu-Boahene and his wife filed a defamation lawsuit against the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, just days prior on April 24, 2025. The couple claims that statements made during a March 24 press conference—where the Attorney General first publicized the allegations—were defamatory and caused irreparable harm to their reputation.
According to the suit, reported by MyJoyOnline, the press conference was widely circulated online, leading to “sustained negative public opinion” against them. They are seeking exemplary and punitive damages, arguing that the Attorney General’s remarks were premature and prejudicial.
Public Reaction and Broader Implications
The case has reignited debates about accountability in Ghana’s public institutions, particularly in light of the country’s history with cybercrime and corruption. Ethical hacking groups in Ghana have long targeted government websites to expose graft, reflecting deep public frustration with systemic issues.
The 2008 Electronic Transactions Act (Act 772) was a step toward addressing cybercrime, but critics have argued that its penalties lack the severity needed to deter offenders. This case, involving millions in state funds, underscores the urgency for stronger oversight and enforcement mechanisms.
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