ACCRA, Oct 30 (The African Portal) – The High Court in Accra has granted bail totalling 150 million Ghana cedis ($9.7 million) to the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Food and Buffer Stock Company, Hannan Abdul-Wahab, and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni, who are facing charges including theft, fraud, and money laundering.
Abdul-Wahab was granted bail of GHS100 million with six sureties, four of whom must be justified with landed property. Wuni received GHS50 million bail with four sureties, three of which must also be justified with property within the court’s jurisdiction.
Both accused were ordered to deposit their passports with the court and report to investigators every Wednesday until the case is concluded. The court also directed that Abdul-Wahab be placed on a stop list at all entry and exit points in the country.
The couple, who have pleaded not guilty to 24 charges including stealing, defrauding by false pretences, intentional dissipation of public funds, money laundering, and using public office for profit, are expected to appear for a Case Management Conference on November 27, when disclosures will be filed.
Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai said the prosecution did not oppose bail but urged the court to consider the “gravity and nature” of the alleged white-collar offences, which involve more than GHS115 million.
Defence counsel Joseph Dindiok Kpemka argued that the accused, who are a married couple with young children, had cooperated fully with the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) during investigations and should not be denied bail.
He reminded the court of the constitutional presumption of innocence, saying bail conditions should not be so harsh as to amount to a denial.
The case has been adjourned to November 27 for further proceedings.
