A young man identified only as Kojo, a resident of Korle Gono in Accra, has been sentenced to just one week in jail after a disturbing video of him beating his wife while she held their 8-month-old baby went viral.
The incident, which happened on Thursday, quickly caught the attention of Ghanaians on social media. In the video, Kojo is seen aggressively hitting his wife, who clutches their baby in her arms while screaming for help. Just two days later, on Saturday, April 12, the court delivered its verdict, sentencing Kojo to a one-week jail term — a decision that has left many shocked and disappointed.
Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions, with many Ghanaians calling the punishment far too lenient. “How can someone beat a woman holding a baby and get just one week? This is unbelievable,” said Amina, a market woman in Korle Gono. “We should be protecting women and children, not making excuses for abusers.”
Others have expressed a more complicated perspective, acknowledging the seriousness of Kojo’s actions but worrying about the future of the mother and the child. “Yes, what he did is very wrong, but if we jail him for five years, who will take care of the baby and the mother?” one resident questioned.
Despite the differing opinions, there is widespread agreement that justice should not be selective. “This issue happened on Thursday and by Saturday, 12th, the man has already been jailed,” another resident pointed out. “They should use the same energy to jail corrupt politicians who steal millions from the country.”
Human rights advocates say the case reflects the need for stronger protection for women and children in domestic violence situations. “This is not just about punishment,” said a representative from a women’s rights organization. “It’s about sending a message that abuse is not tolerated under any circumstance, especially not when a child is involved.”
The baby and the mother are currently said to be in stable condition, but many are calling for the state to step in and provide support.
As the video continues to circulate, Ghanaians are asking tough questions — not just about the law, but about the values of justice, protection, and accountability in the country.
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