In a recent development, Alhaji Abdul-Rahama Madaha has taken legal action by filing a GH¢ 5 million defamation suit at the Tamale High Court of Justice against several media entities and individuals. The suit is directed at TV3, 3news.com, Media General Ghana, their regional correspondent Christopher Amoako, Zaa multimedia, on-air presenter Saani Mohammed Lukman, Guest of the show Mr. Baba, and Wulana of Kakpayili.
The statement of claim, filed by Mr. Sylvester Isang (ESQ), who is representing Alhaji Abdul-Rahama Madaha, alleges that the defendants, through various forms of media, have made damaging statements and insinuations about the plaintiff. These include online publications, social media discussions, and live broadcasts.
Allegations were made that suggested the plaintiff was involved in the kidnapping of children and their subsequent use for ritual purposes. Such claims have been vehemently denied by Alhaji Abdul-Rahama Madaha, who asserts that these statements have severely tarnished his image and reputation.
The specific comments made by the defendants have been outlined in the statement of claim. For instance, it is alleged that Mr. Baba, an actor and the first defendant, made a defamatory comment on his Facebook page regarding the kidnapping and mutilation of children in Kakpayili. Similarly, Wulana Lindquist of Kakpayili Palace, identified as the second defendant, was quoted in an interview with the media making damaging remarks about the plaintiff.
Furthermore, the third and fourth defendants, Saani Mohammed Lukman and staff of Zaa Multimedia, allegedly made defamatory comments during a live TV show implicating the plaintiff in heinous acts. Additionally, the regional correspondent of 3news.com, Christopher Amoako, and the 6th defendant were accused of publishing defamatory content on their news portal and live broadcast on TV3 news.
The plaintiff is seeking redress through various means. Firstly, there is a request for a retraction of the defamatory statements via the same media channels through which they were originally made. Additionally, the plaintiff seeks personal letters from the defendants admitting that their statements were driven by malice and falsehood. Furthermore, a commitment not to repeat such false and slanderous remarks in the future is also being sought.
In terms of monetary compensation, the plaintiff is seeking significant awards from the court against the defendants for the damage caused to his reputation and image.
This legal action underscores the serious implications of defamation and false accusations in the media. It serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible journalism and the potential consequences of spreading unfounded allegations. As this case unfolds in the judicial system, it will be closely watched to see how issues of defamation and media responsibility are addressed.
-source Starrfm | curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
