Ghana government intervenes, halts sale of ADB headquarters building

The Workers Union of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) on Wednesday called off their intended strike action against the sale of its headquarters building located at Ridge for $10 million.

The Management had also intended to rent offices space at the newly constructed Accra Financial centre at GH¢1million a month, and this sparked off agitation by the workers of the bank who felt it was not a wise decision.

The ADB workers called off the strike after a closed door meeting with Mr Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Employment and Labour Relations in Accra.

Parties involved in the crunch meeting were members of the management of ADB, the Union of Industry, Commerce and Finance Workers (UNICOF), workers unions at ADB, Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, and the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations.

Addressing the media after the meeting, Mr Iddrisu, said management had agreed to halt all processes concerning the sale of the house while government looked into the matter.

He said government would also look into issues relating to the renting of offices at the Accra Financial Centre, which had become a bone of contention between the top hierarchy of the bank and the workers.

“All other issues including the matters of conflict of interest bothering on the sale of adb House will be looked into,” he added.

He urged the workers to work in peace devoid of intimidation, and accusations which could dampen their spirits.

“I will urge all parties to work in the interest of the bank devoid of intimidation and accusations,” he said.

He assured the workers that the government would not witch hunt or go after any worker who protested or voiced out his or her concerns concerning the sale of the building.

Mr John Esiape, the General Secretary, UNICOF, expressed satisfaction with the decision taken after the meeting, adding that, members would comply with it.

Source: GNA