The Deputy Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tettey Yohunu, has filed a defamation lawsuit against broadcaster Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart and Media General Limited.
The case was filed at the Accra High Court on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
According to court documents, Captain Smart, during a live broadcast on December 27, 2024, accused the Deputy IGP of being part of a conspiracy involving certain Ghana Armed Forces and Police Service officials to destabilize Ghana’s constitutional order through a coup d’état.
The broadcaster also alleged that Mr. Yohunu’s appointment as Deputy IGP was politically motivated and claimed he had participated in meetings to lobby for the position.
Additionally, Captain Smart alleged that the Deputy IGP had been visiting the homes of National Democratic Congress (NDC) officials, despite being affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and offered them money to secure his appointment as IGP.
In response, the Deputy IGP has described these allegations as defamatory and baseless.
He is seeking general damages for defamation and an injunction to restrain Captain Smart and Media General from making further defamatory statements.
Mr. Yohunu is also requesting a court order directing the defendants to retract their statements and issue an unqualified apology.
The apology, he demands, should be broadcast three times on Onua TV and Onua FM, the platforms where the alleged defamatory remarks were made.
This case brings attention to the increasing scrutiny of public officials and the media’s role in shaping public perception.
Both parties are expected to present their arguments in court in the coming weeks.
Attached below link is the full copy of the writ:
