The Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, has filed a lawsuit against Samuel Bryan Buabeng, a Facebook user, over allegedly defamatory words and photographs published on his page. The posts, made on September 22, 2026, reportedly linked her to narcotics trafficking and abuse of office. In response, Mrs. Afriyie Opare is seeking GH¢10 million in general damages for libel.
According to the writ filed at the High Court, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration that the words and two photographs published on the Facebook page, “Samuel Bryan Buabeng,” were false and defamatory. The Managing Director is also seeking an order directing the defendant to delete the publication within seven days of judgment. Furthermore, she wants the defendant to remove every copy, share, or reproduction of the publication from any social media account, page, or internet site under his control.
In addition to the deletion of the posts, Mrs. Afriyie Opare is seeking an order directing the defendant to publish an unconditional retraction and an unreserved apology on the same Facebook page. The retraction and apology should have the same prominence as the original publication and remain pinned to the top of the page for 30 consecutive days. This move aims to rectify the alleged harm caused by the defamatory posts.
The plaintiff is also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining the defendant, his agents, servants, or assigns from further publishing the alleged defamatory words or photographs. The writ commanded Mr. Buabeng to enter an appearance within eight days after service of the writ, inclusive of the day of service. Failure to enter an appearance could result in judgment being entered against him in his absence without further notice.
The lawsuit highlights the growing concern over online defamation in Ghana. The plaintiff, as the Managing Director of GACL, holds a public position and is therefore subject to scrutiny. However, she maintains that the allegations made against her are false and have caused her harm. The case will likely set a precedent for similar online defamation cases in the country.
Online defamation cases have become increasingly common in Ghana, with individuals and organizations seeking redress for alleged harm caused by social media posts. The courts have been tasked with balancing the right to freedom of expression with the need to protect individuals from defamation. This case will be closely watched as it navigates the complexities of online defamation.
The outcome of this case may have implications for social media users in Ghana, who must be cautious about the content they post online. It also underscores the importance of verifying information before sharing it online to avoid causing harm to others. The case is ongoing, and the court has yet to rule on the matter.
Key points
- - The Managing Director of GACL, Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, has sued Samuel Bryan Buabeng for defamatory Facebook posts. - The plaintiff is seeking GH¢10 million in general damages for libel, among other reliefs. - The case highlights the growing concern over online defamation in Ghana and may set a precedent for similar cases.
