‘I never said I have the President in my pocket’ - Kwesi Nyantakyi

Former President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kwesi Nyantakyi, has stated that he never claimed President Nana Akufo-Addo was in his pocket during the controversial Number 12 investigative exposé by Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

According to Mr Nyantakyi, the alleged statement was a figment of someone’s imagination deliberately crafted to tarnish his image and reputation.

Speaking to Joy News on Tuesday, January 6, he insisted that the accusation had unfairly gained widespread notoriety despite having no factual basis.

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“I never said that anywhere, but that allegation has gained so much notoriety that it would be illogical for me to even stand up to contradict it,” he said.

He further challenged the investigative journalist to provide proof of the claim. He added:

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Mr Nyantakyi also described the documentary as an act of blackmail, arguing that the journalist failed to substantiate corruption allegations levelled against him. He, however, noted that he holds no personal grudges against Anas.

He said:

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The Number 12 exposé, released in 2018, was an undercover investigation into alleged corruption in African football. The documentary purportedly showed Mr Nyantakyi accepting money from an undercover journalist posing as a businessman.

In the video, he was seen discussing potential business deals and claiming he could use his political connections to facilitate opportunities. He was also accused of receiving bribes to influence player selections for the national football team.

Following the release of the investigation, Mr Nyantakyi resigned as GFA President and was handed a lifetime ban from football by FIFA. The sanction was later reduced to a 15-year ban.

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However, after the prosecution failed to present its key witness in court, the case collapsed. The court subsequently ruled in his favour, bringing an end to the long-running legal battle.