I don’t even trust my own mother – Greater Accra Minister vows thorough probe into Ramsar Site corruption

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Ocloo, has promised a thorough investigation. This follows allegations that the site manager of the Lashibi Ramsar enclave took bribes. These bribes allegedly allowed unauthorized buildings on protected land.

During a demolition exercise on Tuesday, she spoke to reporters. She noted that this issue is not new. “We’ve been here severally,” she said. There have been many allegations against the site manager. “We must get to the root of this,” she added.

Hon. Ocloo expressed concern about illegal development in the area. She shifted some blame to municipal officials. “Where are the engineers and planners?” she asked. “How did we let it get this far?”

When asked if the site manager would step aside during the investigation, she responded, “I don’t have that mandate.” She stated they would inform the right authorities for next steps. The site manager claims he hasn’t taken any money, but she expressed distrust: “I don’t trust human beings fully—not even my own mother.”

She shared an emotional moment when a man begged for his building to be spared. However, she insisted that the law must prevail. “If we allow one person, what message are we sending?” she questioned. “This is a Ramsar site. No one is above the law.”

Hon. Ocloo confirmed that Tuesday's demolition was successful and would continue Wednesday. She dismissed claims that demolitions would stop at a certain point: “We’re going beyond.” They will ensure every structure on this Ramsar site is addressed.

She concluded with a strong statement: “We’re not going to leave any stone unturned.” A Ramsar site is protected by law, and "the law is the law."