DCE Warns Social Welfare, NIA Staff Over Alleged Extortion in Daffiama Bussie Issa

The District Chief Executive for the Daffiama Bussie Issa District, James Wor, has issued a strong warning to staff of the Social Welfare Department and the National Identification Authority (NIA) over allegations of extortion.

According to Mr Wor, several complaints from residents have raised concerns about unethical practices among some officials. Speaking on Info Radio, he revealed that certain NIA staff in the district have allegedly been overcharging residents for services that are typically delivered at official rates. He noted that despite earlier cautions issued to the staff involved, reports of such conduct continue to reach his office.

The DCE stressed that he would not take future complaints lightly, emphasizing that any confirmed case of extortion would result in serious consequences. He urged public servants to uphold integrity and serve citizens diligently, reminding them that their mandate is to assist and not exploit the public.

Mr Wor also expressed concern about irregularities surrounding the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme in the district. He disclosed that he has received reports suggesting that some Social Welfare personnel are allegedly collecting money from individuals and enrolling unqualified beneficiaries onto the programme.

He cited troubling examples, including a case where a family that owns the largest provision shop in a community is reportedly benefiting from LEAP support while elderly and extremely poor residents remain excluded.

In another instance, he revealed that a person currently residing in the Bono East Region is still listed as a beneficiary under the district’s programme.

Describing these incidents as unacceptable, Mr Wor placed responsibility on some Social Welfare staff for failing to ensure transparency and fairness in the selection process. He reiterated his commitment to protecting the integrity of government interventions intended to support the most vulnerable members of society.

The DCE concluded with a firm reminder that public trust is essential to governance, and any official found undermining that trust through misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary action.