Two Forestry Commission officers in the Ahafo Region, Felix Gatiba and Eric Boamah, have been interdicted despite generating a record GH¢623,000 for the Commission in a single month. The suspension is believed to be connected to concerns that their operations may have revealed previously under-declared revenue streams.
The controversy began after Elikem Kotoko was appointed Deputy CEO in charge of Operations. Upon reviewing the Commission’s activities, Kotoko identified major irregularities and took decisive action to clamp down on illegal lumber trade, which had been depriving the state of significant funds.
Following a targeted intelligence operation across Ahafo and Bono, Kotoko’s team seized numerous lumber consignments being transported without proper permits. The Deputy CEO instructed the Ahafo Timber Industry Development Division (TIDD) office to secure court approval to auction the confiscated wood and channel the proceeds into the Forestry Commission’s account.
Once the court authorization was obtained, the TIDD team conducted the auction, depositing GH¢623,000—more than 150 percent above the previous month’s revenue from similar operations. The unprecedented revenue raised questions about potential under-declaration of funds by prior operations.
Sources indicate that the interdiction of Gatiba and Boamah stems from resistance by individuals benefiting from the previously under-reported revenue, as their actions threatened entrenched interests. Reports show that the officers were acting under the Deputy CEO’s instructions, yet the HR Director issued the interdiction letters, claiming directives came from Chief Executive Dr Hugh Brown and TIDD Executive Director Dr Richard Gyimah.
A six-member committee has been set up to investigate the matter. Meanwhile, the interdicted officers will forfeit 50 percent of their salaries during the probe. Some insiders have expressed skepticism about whether the investigation will fully scrutinize the seizure, auction, and deposit process, and whether the GH¢623,000 will be properly accounted for.
This incident highlights concerns over transparency within the Forestry Commission and raises questions about how staff who perform their duties effectively are treated. The investigation’s outcome will be critical in determining if due process was followed and in exposing any hidden interests undermining revenue collection.
