Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, has filed a GH¢10 million defamation suit against Facebook user Samuel Bryan Buabeng. The suit, filed at the Accra High Court, relates to a September 22, 2026, publication on Buabeng's Facebook page, which Opare's lawyers claim contains defamatory allegations linking her to narcotics trafficking and abuse of office.
The publication in question features Opare's name and photograph alongside that of Frank Danquah, a GACL employee, and makes allegations of improper association and benefit from narcotics trafficking. Opare's lawyers argue that the post implies she had a connection to, or benefited from, alleged narcotics trafficking, which they categorically deny. They describe the allegations as serious imputations of criminal involvement, corruption, and abuse of office.
Opare's lawyers have also issued a cease-and-desist notice, demanding that the publication and related comments be removed, along with an unconditional retraction, an unreserved public apology, and a written undertaking not to repeat the allegations. The plaintiff is seeking a declaration that the words and photographs published are false and defamatory, as well as an order directing Buabeng to delete the publication and remove every copy or reproduction of it from social media.
The suit further seeks an order requiring an unconditional retraction and unreserved public apology, to be published on the same Facebook page with the same prominence as the original post and pinned for 30 consecutive days. Opare is also asking the court for a perpetual injunction restraining the defendant from republishing the allegedly defamatory statements or similar material. In addition to the GH¢10 million in general damages, she is seeking aggravated and exemplary damages.
According to Opare's lawyers, Danquah has been employed by GACL since September 1, 2004, but has "no personal connection" with Opare beyond their respective official roles. They further state that Opare rejects the description of Danquah as her "favourite member of staff" and denies participating in or benefiting from any alleged criminal activity. The case is now before the High Court, where the claims and reliefs sought by the plaintiff will be determined.
The plaintiff's lawyers took particular issue with the September 22 publication and the alleged implication created by the association of Opare's name and photograph with Danquah. They argue that the publication has caused harm to Opare's reputation and seeks to protect her rights. The court will have to consider the evidence presented by both parties and determine whether the publication was indeed defamatory.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for social media users and public figures in Ghana, particularly with regards to online defamation and the protection of reputation. As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by stakeholders and the general public.
Key points
- GACL MD Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare seeks GH¢10 million in damages for defamation.
