The selection of Ibrahim Abdul Rauf Tanko, North East Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Chairman of the Hajj Board, as the Overall Best Farmer has stirred debate at the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration in Chereponi.

Mr Tanko, a large-scale mixed farmer, received a tricycle, farming tools, and assorted prizes after emerging winner among several nominees. While supporters hailed the honour as a deserved acknowledgement of his longstanding contribution to agriculture, critics questioned whether the decision may have been politically influenced.

Minister Dismisses Allegations of Favouritism

Responding to the concerns, North East Regional Minister Tia Ibrahim firmly dismissed any suggestion of political bias.

“In the whole of the northern sector, there is nobody who can farm rice more than him,” the Minister stated.

“It is clear and visible for everybody to see. This is not politics. This is about rewarding people who truly deserve it. For all those we have awarded, go and do background checks on them. I challenge the media to come forward and tell me if there is even one person who did not deserve their award.”

He urged the public to avoid politicising the celebration, insisting that agriculture remains a non-partisan national priority.

The Minister also announced plans to establish two agricultural service centres in Yunyoo and Mamprugu-Moaduri to support food production for domestic and export markets. Additionally, he revealed that two food market centres would be created to store surplus produce for future distribution, including supply to Senior High Schools under the Free SHS Programme.

He further appealed for stronger community action against bushfires and encouraged improved hygiene practices to reduce sanitation-related health challenges.

Farmers Raise Concerns Over Market Access and Roads

Some farmers, particularly rice and sesame producers, told JoyNews that they continue to struggle with limited market access, which they say is hindering productivity. They also complained about the poor state of feeder roads connecting farms to market centres and called for urgent government intervention.

Others appealed for the reopening of the border with Togo and the easing of cross-border restrictions to support agricultural trade in the area.

Mixed Public Reaction

Opinions among residents remain divided. While some farmers welcomed Mr Tanko’s recognition as motivation for others to expand their operations, others argued that awarding a prominent political figure at a state event could reinforce perceptions of political influence or demonstrate impartiality, depending on interpretation.

Farmers’ Day activities across the North East Region highlighted resilience, food security, and the adoption of new technologies. Several farmers were honoured for excellence in rice cultivation, livestock production, shea processing, and youth innovation.

Despite the controversy, the ceremony concluded with renewed calls for unity and a collective commitment to advancing agricultural productivity in the region.