The Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) has officially announced its intention to launch a comprehensive investigation into the alleged illegal sale of lands reclaimed under the Keta Sea Defence Project.
This revelation was made by the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, during the confirmation ceremony of Mr. Wisdom Seade as the new Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Keta Municipality.
The event, held at the Assembly Hall of the Keta Municipal Assembly, brought together local authorities, traditional leaders, and community members.
Concerns Over Sale of Public Lands
According to Mr. Gunu, the decision to probe the land deals follows mounting public concern and reports of irregularities. Allegations suggest that parcels of land originally reclaimed for resettlement and public infrastructure have been sold to private developers.
The transactions in question reportedly took place between 2021 and 2024, during the tenure of the previous administration. There have been claims that lands intended for schools, sports complexes, and other public amenities were sold off without due process.
“This investigation is not just a formality—it is a necessity,” Mr. Gunu emphasized. “The people of Keta deserve transparency and accountability. These lands were reclaimed at great cost for the benefit of all, not a few.”
A Call for Accountability and Transparency
Mr. Gunu stated that the VRCC will work collaboratively with traditional authorities, opinion leaders, and all relevant agencies to ensure a fair and transparent inquiry.
“The Keta Municipal Assembly will work hand-in-hand with the chiefs and community stakeholders. We must bring clarity and restore confidence in how our lands are managed,” he added.
The lands in question were part of a larger reclamation initiative carried out between 1998 and 2004 under the Keta Sea Defence Project. These included parts of the Keta Lagoon and surrounding areas, particularly in communities like Kedzi, Vodza, Adzido, and Keta Central—which formed a crucial buffer against the region’s recurring tidal wave disasters.
Community Reaction: A Step Toward Justice?
The news of the impending investigation was met with support and cautious optimism among locals. At the confirmation ceremony, some Assembly Members and residents expressed hope that the move would lead to justice and reform.
Mr. Gabriel Dzikunu, remarked:
“The issue of the Keta reclaimed lands has been a contentious topic for years. The VRCC’s decision to act is commendable. It is time to bring order and fairness into how public lands are managed here.”
Another resident, Emefa Adjei, a teacher from Vodza, shared her concern in an interview:
“We’ve heard stories of people acquiring land in secret and starting construction overnight. We need proper documentation and accountability.”
However, not everyone is convinced. On social media, some users expressed skepticism, citing previous probes that led nowhere.
On a Facebook comment thread discussing the development, user @KetaVoice wrote:
“Let’s hope this isn’t another ‘white paper’ that never sees implementation. We’ve waited long enough.”
Meanwhile, another user, @DzifaSpeaks, tweeted:
“If this is done properly, maybe our children will finally have that school we were promised.”
What’s Next?
As the new MCE, Mr. Wisdom Seade, settles into office, the spotlight will now be on the effectiveness and transparency of the upcoming investigation. The public is watching keenly, hoping for a restoration of trust and justice for the communities affected by what many describe as a betrayal of public interest.
The VRCC has yet to announce the full composition of the investigative team or the timeline for the probe, but expectations are high.
