Tensions are mounting within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following reports that loyal party members working at the National Sports Authority (NSA) are under threat after the Authority’s Board Chairman allegedly called for a review and possible revocation of their appointments.
The development has sparked outrage among party grassroots supporters who argue that long-serving loyalists are being unfairly targeted despite their years of sacrifice and dedication to the party.
One of the affected individuals is Tijani A. Jibril, a well-known and influential NDC activist with a strong support base in Nima, Maamobi, and New Town in Accra. Party insiders describe him as a “hardcore loyalist” whose contributions to the NDC span decades.
According to party sources, Mr. Jibril’s political journey dates back to 1983 when he was recruited as a young cadre by former President Jerry John Rawlings. He was subsequently enlisted in Cuba, where he attended the Isla de la Juventud in Gerona to study Spanish. He later continued to the Escuela Deportivo — the University College of Sports in Pinar del Rio, Cuba — where he studied Sports Development.
Supporters say his educational background and long-standing commitment to the party have made him a respected figure not only within his immediate constituencies but also across broader political circles.
When the NDC returned to power in 2024, Mr. Jibril was reportedly among the first to mobilize support for security operations at the Accra Sports Stadium. His efforts during the transition period, sources say, played a key role in stabilizing operations at the facility.
In recognition of his mobilization skills and loyalty, the Director-General of the NSA, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, is said to have offered him a role supporting security and communications at the Authority.
However, recent calls by the Board Chairman to review certain appointments — reportedly on the grounds that they were not approved by the Board — have placed Mr. Jibril and other perceived NDC loyalists in a precarious position.
Critics within the party argue that some current board members did not actively campaign for the NDC and therefore lack the moral authority to question the appointments of individuals who have dedicated years of service to the party.
“A man who has sacrificed and served the party for decades cannot be discarded simply because a new board claims his appointment was not approved by them,” a party source lamented. “If we cannot protect our own at such a crucial time, then what are we here for?”
As tensions simmer, many within the party are calling for dialogue and internal resolution to prevent further divisions. Observers warn that how the matter is handled could have implications for party unity and morale among grassroots supporters.
At the time of filing this report, the NSA Board had not publicly responded to the concerns raised by party loyalists.
