The Coalition of GaDangme Pressure Groups has issued a scathing denunciation of what it describes as a targeted campaign against Daniel McKorley, popularly known as McDan, the Executive Chairman of the McDan Group. Speaking at a press conference in Accra, the group claimed that the ongoing challenges faced by McDan Aviation, including the recent closure of its private jet terminal at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), are part of a larger “satanic agenda” orchestrated by elements within President Nana Akufo-Addo’s government.
Claims of Ethnic and Political Targeting
The Coalition, led by spokesperson Jonathan Akrong, accused the government of prioritizing personal interests over national development. They alleged that McDan’s success as a prominent GaDangme businessman has made him a target for certain influential individuals they referred to as the “Akyem Mafia.”
The group asserted that these individuals aim to dominate KIA operations by systematically sidelining competing enterprises, such as McDan Aviation.
“This calculated targeting of McDan is extremely alarming and represents a troubling pattern of events in the waning days of the Akufo-Addo administration,” said Jonathan Akrong.
Closure of McDan Aviation and Alleged Conspiracies
The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) recently shut down McDan Aviation’s private jet terminal over unpaid debts totaling US$3,995,622.66 and GH¢13,523.37. The Coalition claims the closure is part of a deliberate scheme to pave the way for the President’s associates to gain control of the airport’s lucrative operations.
The group linked these developments to earlier controversies, including the dismissal of Yaw Kwakwa, former Managing Director of GACL, and Hopeson Adorye, former head of KIA security. They alleged that these moves were orchestrated to remove dissenting voices and facilitate corrupt practices.
The “Agyapadie Book” Controversy
The group referenced the controversial Agyapadie Book, which allegedly outlines a roadmap for consolidating control over key state assets, including KIA. They claim this agenda has been in motion since Akufo-Addo’s first term, with McDan’s business facing obstacles as part of a larger plot.
The Coalition also cited media reports implicating close associates of the President in operations at KIA, including:
- Benedict Peters, a Nigerian businessman linked to Frontiers Health Service, which managed COVID-19 testing at KIA.
- Femi Adetola, another Nigerian associate, overseeing a section of KIA catering to high-profile passengers.
- Valerie Obaze, the President’s daughter, reportedly connected to the Duty-Free Shop at KIA’s Terminal 3.
Ethnic Dimensions and Public Backlash
The group described the actions against McDan Aviation as “wicked and atrocious,” emphasizing the ethnic undertones of the controversy. They argued that McDan’s standing as a prominent GaDangme entrepreneur has fueled resentment and jealousy among those seeking to undermine his business.
“This is not just an attack on McDan but on the entire GaDangme community and all progressive Ghanaians,” said the Coalition.
The group also noted widespread public outcry during the first closure of McDan Aviation, which they claimed led to Yaw Kwakwa’s removal as GACL Managing Director under the guise of resolving the controversy.
Calls for Resistance and Accountability
The Coalition has urged Ghanaians to resist what it calls the “entrenchment of cronyism and corruption” at KIA. They demanded that the government halt all alleged targeting of McDan and ensure a fair business environment for all Ghanaian enterprises, regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation.
“This is a wake-up call for all Ghanaians. We must stand against the monopolization of our state assets by a privileged few,” the group emphasized.
Conclusion: Growing Tensions Amid Controversy
The unfolding drama around McDan Aviation highlights broader concerns about governance, cronyism, and the management of state assets in Ghana. With accusations of ethnic targeting and insider dealings at KIA, the Coalition of GaDangme Pressure Groups has vowed to escalate its advocacy efforts to protect businesses and hold the government accountable.
As public scrutiny intensifies, it remains to be seen how the Akufo-Addo administration will respond to these allegations and whether transparency will prevail in the management of Ghana’s aviation sector.
