Ghana Hostels Ltd Demands Apology From Acting Rent Commissioner Over Pentagon Hostel Remarks

Management of Ghana Hostels Limited has called on the Acting Rent Commissioner, Fredrick Opoku, to issue an immediate and unconditional apology over comments he allegedly made regarding accommodation charges at the Pentagon Hostel on the campus of the University of Ghana.

In a statement released on May 13, the company said remarks made during a media interview created what it described as a false and misleading impression about the management and operations of the hostel facility.

According to management, although the Pentagon Hostel is an investment owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust, the administration of the facility, including tenancy agreements and accommodation pricing, is independently managed by Ghana Hostels Limited.

The company argued that the Acting Rent Commissioner made the comments without adequate verification and unfairly portrayed management as being insensitive to the welfare of students.

GHL further defended its accommodation charges, explaining that standard four-in-one rooms at the Old Pentagon Hostel cost GH¢7,392 per academic year, while similar accommodation at the New Pentagon Hostel is priced at GH¢8,876 annually per student.

Management stated that the fees translate to approximately GH¢821.33 and GH¢986.22 per month respectively, covering utilities such as water, electricity quota and GH¢100 JCR dues.

The company rejected suggestions that students are being subjected to excessive accommodation costs, insisting that its rates remain competitive and comparatively affordable when compared with several private hostels within the university enclave.

Responding to claims regarding an alleged GH¢28,000 hostel fee mentioned during the radio discussion, management clarified that such charges do not apply to its regular accommodation structure.

According to the company, only a limited number of premium rooms equipped with additional amenities, including air conditioners and queen-size beds, attract higher charges. It noted that such rooms account for less than five percent of the hostel’s total capacity and remain optional for students.

GHL added that standard four-in-one rooms make up more than 65 percent of all available rooms and are offered at lower rates.

The company also clarified that all accommodation fees are charged per academic year and not on a semester basis as had earlier been suggested.

Management concluded by reiterating its demand for an immediate and unqualified apology from the Acting Rent Commissioner over what it described as unfortunate comments made during the programme.