Akufo-Addo’s Brother Wins GH¢10m Defamation Case Over Presidential Jet Claims

A defamation case involving Edward Akufo-Addo, popularly known as “Bompty” and the younger brother of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, ended with a GH¢10 million damages award after allegations that he used Ghana’s presidential jet for personal trips were challenged in court.

The Accra High Court delivered the judgment on June 23, 2022, ruling in favour of Edward Akufo-Addo in a case against Class Media Group, Accra FM presenter Kwabena Bobie Ansah, Mensah Thompson and Listowell Nana Kusi-Poku. Reports of the judgment said the court ordered the defendants to retract the statements and issue an apology, while also restraining them from repeating similar allegations. <Cite refs={[“turn461640search3”,“turn461640search4”]}/>

The lawsuit stemmed from comments made during a broadcast of “The Citizen Show” on Accra FM on May 29, 2021. During the programme, the defendants allegedly claimed that Edward Akufo-Addo had access to the presidential aircraft, known as the Falcon, and used it for private journeys.

The claims suggested that the businessman was benefiting from his family relationship with the then president by using a state aircraft for personal purposes. Edward Akufo-Addo rejected the allegations and took legal action, arguing that the statements were false and had damaged his reputation. <Cite refs={[“turn461640search5”,“turn461640search9”]}/>

In his suit, he sought GH¢10 million in damages, a public apology and retraction, as well as an order preventing the defendants from making similar statements about him.

According to reports published after the judgment, the court awarded the damages against the defendants who contested the action and entered a default judgment against Listowell Nana Kusi-Poku, who failed to enter an appearance to defend himself. The orders included an apology and retraction of the disputed publication. <Cite refs={[“turn461640search3”,“turn461640search8”]}/>

The case drew attention because it involved allegations concerning the use of a major state asset and the relationship between public office and family members of a sitting president. It also highlighted the legal consequences that can follow when public statements about an individual’s conduct are challenged as defamatory.

The judgment established the outcome of Edward Akufo-Addo’s defamation action over the specific statements before the court. It should not, however, be interpreted as a general ruling on every question concerning the use of Ghana’s presidential aircraft.

Although the case is being recirculated, the reported GH¢10 million judgment dates back to June 2022 rather than representing a new court decision in October 2026.

Source: https://x.com/sikaofficial1/status/2112171031091667274?s=46

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