OSP Invites DVLA Boss Over Alleged GH¢4m Bribe Attempt
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OSP Invites DVLA Boss Over Alleged GH¢4m Bribe Attempt
October 29, 2025
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has invited the Chief Executive Officer of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Julius Neequaye Kotey, for questioning following his public claim that he rejected a GH¢4 million bribe allegedly offered to stop the rollout of the new Digitalised Vehicle Registration Plate (DP) policy.
Mr. Kotey revealed in a recent media interview that certain powerful individuals had tried to influence him to abandon the initiative, which seeks to combat vehicle-related fraud and enhance road safety. The DVLA boss stated that he turned down the substantial bribe offer despite pressure from these unnamed influential figures.
In response to the public allegation, the OSP confirmed that it is seeking further information from the DVLA boss to verify the claim and identify those purportedly involved in the bribery attempt. The anti-corruption body's invitation signals the beginning of formal investigations into the matter, which has raised serious questions about attempts to undermine government digitalization efforts.
The Digitalised Vehicle Registration Plate policy is a key government initiative designed to modernize Ghana's vehicle registration system, improve tracking of vehicles, reduce fraud in the automotive sector, and enhance overall road safety. The alleged bribery attempt suggests significant opposition to the reform from parties who may benefit from the current system's weaknesses.
The OSP's decision to invite Mr. Kotey for questioning follows standard procedure in corruption investigations, where witnesses and complainants are interviewed to gather evidence and establish the facts of alleged offences. The anti-corruption agency will be seeking details about when the bribe was offered, who made the offer, the circumstances surrounding the attempt, and any evidence that can corroborate the DVLA chief's claims.
Meanwhile, in a separate matter, the OSP has launched an investigation into a sitting member of the Council of State over suspected corruption and corruption-related offences linked to gold trading. Sources close to the OSP indicate that the probe focuses on claims that the Council member allegedly leveraged his position to influence the granting of a gold licence to a company with which he reportedly has undisclosed business interests.
The investigation into the Council of State member represents another significant corruption case being pursued by the OSP. The Council of State is a constitutional body that advises the President on national matters, and allegations of corruption against one of its members carry serious implications for governance and public trust.
The gold trading investigation centers on potential conflict of interest and abuse of office allegations. If proven, the charges could involve violations of public office holder regulations, which require officials to declare their business interests and recuse themselves from decisions where such conflicts exist.
Both investigations underscore the OSP's active role in pursuing corruption allegations at high levels of government and state institutions. The Office of the Special Prosecutor, established to combat corruption and corruption-related offences, has constitutional independence to investigate and prosecute such cases without political interference.
The DVLA bribery allegation and the Council of State investigation come at a time when Ghana continues to grapple with corruption challenges across various sectors. Anti-corruption advocates have welcomed the OSP's proactive approach in following up on these allegations, viewing it as essential for deterring corrupt practices and holding public officials accountable.
Legal experts note that Mr. Kotey's cooperation with the OSP investigation will be crucial in determining whether criminal charges can be brought against those allegedly involved in the bribery attempt. The success of the investigation will depend on the availability of evidence, including any documentation, communications, or witness testimony that can support the DVLA chief's claims.
The outcome of both investigations will be closely watched by the public, civil society organizations, and the international community as indicators of Ghana's commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring accountability in public service. The cases also highlight the challenges faced by public officials who resist corrupt pressures and the importance of protecting whistleblowers and those who report corruption attempts.
As the investigations proceed, the OSP is expected to interview additional witnesses, gather documentary evidence, and determine whether sufficient grounds exist to bring formal charges against any individuals identified in connection with either case. The anti-corruption body has assured the public that both investigations will be conducted thoroughly and in accordance with the law.
