Abuga Pele receives heroes welcome in hometown after 3 years in prison

​​Mr Abuga Pele, a former legislator for Chiana-Paga Constituency in the Upper East Region has finally had the opportunity to meet his former constituents at Nakolo after he was granted a presidential pardon.

The former Coordinator of the defunct Ghana Youth Employment and Entrepreneurial Development Agency (GYEEDA) was released on July 1 after Nana Akufo-Addo granted him a presidential pardon on health grounds.

In appreciation of his new state, he said “I thank God for my release, I thank the President, the people of Nakolo, I thank all those who were instrumental in getting me out of prison. Another day will come for me to explain a lot of things,”

Mr Pele was speaking at Nakolo in the Chiana-Paga constituency which is also the hometown of the former law-maker.

He was sentenced to serve six years in prison in February 2018 due to his involvement in a GH¢4.1 million GYEEDA scandal along with businessman, Philip Assibit who was given 10 years for his role in the same case.

The former legislator was given a rousing welcome into the Constituency with many constituents lined up to catch a glimpse of him and as well welcome him back home.

Mr Pele expressed joy for the support he was given since he first became an MP and even during periods where his party, the NDC was in opposition. He stated, “for 16 years, they have kept their support for me. They actually supported me when we were in opposition from 2000 and 2004.

“So, to imagine that this Constituency will stick to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in spite of the fact that we were in opposition tells you a lot about the love of the people. My only problem is, I always think I have not done a lot for my people.”

He expressed optimism that others who would come later would continue from where he left off and ensure the constituency is developed. He as well prayed for strength for the Nakolo to continue to grow.

“I pray that this town will continue to grow from strength to strength,” he said.

In an address delivered on behalf of his family, Mr Michael Gantera said, “Our depleting hope is restored and we have every reason to be happy and jubilant.

“We want to use this platform to extend our sincerest and heartfelt gratitude to the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for the presidential pardon granted our father, husband and friend. God bless you graciously Mr President,” the family said.

The family also extended gratitude to all those who contributed in diverse ways to the release of Mr Pele.

By: Stella Annan | myactiveonline.com Twitter @activetvgh

Author