In a strongly worded press statement delivered on in Tamale, members of the COP Fan Club vehemently opposed the appointment of Brigadier General Ziblim Ayorrogo as the Commissioner of the Customs Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS), calling him an “NDC apparatchik.” 

The press conference, held on Thursday, April 18, highlighted concerns over Ayorrogo’s alleged political affiliations and past actions, which they argue are incompatible with the impartiality and neutrality required for the role.

The COP Fan Club, comprising passionate supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), expressed dismay over the impending replacement of Mr. Seidu Iddrisu Iddisah, the current head of CEPS, whose tenure they described as marked by progress and transformative leadership. They cited Mr. Iddisah’s dedication, strategic vision, and commitment to modernization and efficiency as key factors that have propelled Ghana’s customs operations to unprecedented heights since 2022.

The Group detailed Ayorrogo’s alleged involvement in activities aimed at disrupting electoral processes, including the training of thugs during the 2009 Chereponi by-election. They also criticized his punitive actions against a military officer who drank Kalyppo to the cameras during the 2016 election campaign, which they interpreted as evidence of his bias against the NPP.

Members of the COP Fan Club emphasized the importance of appointments to sensitive positions such as Commissioner of CEPS being based on merit, professionalism, and dedication to national security, rather than political expediency. They argued that Ayorrogo’s appointment would jeopardize the achievements made under Mr. Iddisah’s leadership and could undermine the NPP’s chances of retaining power in the upcoming December elections.

 The COP Fan Club therefore urged President Akufo-Addo and the government to reconsider the decision to replace Mr. Iddisah, emphasizing that maintaining his leadership is essential for the continuity of Ghana’s customs operations and the upholding of principles such as professionalism, integrity, and national security.