The legal team representing Gertrude Odoteye and Nii Ako Odoteye has taken notice of the intended defamation suit reportedly being prepared by the Apedwa Kontihene, Baffour Antwi Kokoroko, and the Nkosuohene, Odehyie Ansah Akomeah.
We categorically reject the assertion that our clients have engaged in defamation or the dissemination of falsehoods. The social media posts attributed to Gertrude Odoteye were made in good faith and were based on events and circumstances that genuinely occurred. At no point did our client act with malice, recklessness, or intent to injure the reputation of any individual or traditional authority.
Gertrude Odoteye resorted to social media specifically to present the ongoing happenings and provide updates because the threats and attacks against them were becoming excessive and persistent.
Since the publication of these matters, Gertrude Odoteye has lived in constant fear for her life, having received threats directly linked to the public reaction generated by the controversy. The psychological distress and insecurity she continues to endure are grave and cannot be ignored. Rather than being the perpetrator of wrongdoing, our client is a victim of intimidation and sustained injustice.
Furthermore, we find the intention to sue Nii Ako Odoteye, the father of Gertrude Odoteye, to be completely without merit. If the basis of their suit revolves around the representation of issues on social media, their logic fails to add up; Nii Ako Odoteye has never been a presence on social media. Targeting him in this legal action is therefore unfounded and illogical.
We further state that the issues raised by our client relate to long-standing attacks, harassment, and injustices allegedly meted out against the people of Okanta and members of the Ga-Dangme community. These matters are of public interest and concern, particularly where the safety, dignity, and fundamental rights of citizens are implicated.
In light of the above, our clients are fully prepared to vigorously defend themselves against any action that may be commenced. Additionally, we have firm instructions to initiate a counterclaim against the Apedwa Kontihene and all relevant parties at the High Court, Accra, seeking damages to the tune of GHS 2,000,000 (Two Million Ghana Cedis) for:
1.Threats to life and personal safety
- Psychological trauma and distress
- Abuse of influence
- Violations of the rights of Ga-Dangme people and Okantan residents.
All documentary, photographic, eyewitness, and expert evidence supporting these claims, including evidence of attacks and systemic injustice will be duly presented before the court at the appropriate time.
Our client, Gertrude Odoteye, will refrain from further public commentary and has elected to allow the rule of law and judicial process to determine the truth of these matters. We urge all parties to refrain from media sensationalism and to respect the integrity of the courts.
Signed:Legal Team for Gertrude Odoteye and Nii Ako Odoteye
