The Online Publishers Association of Ghana (OPAG) has strongly condemned what it describes as abusive and defamatory comments made against President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama by a TikTok user, Priscila Ansong.

In a press release dated March 31, 2026, and signed by its President, Michael Petit Mawugbe, the association described the conduct as harmful to the integrity and sustainability of Ghana’s digital space.

“OPAG strongly condemns the use of social media in defaming and slandering President Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama by TikToker Priscila Ansong,” the statement said.

According to the association, such actions undermine efforts to build a responsible and credible online environment. It noted that while the individual may have intended to promote an upcoming movie, the approach taken was misguided and potentially dangerous.

“We understand that the young lady spewed those unprintable comments to promote her upcoming movie; however, ignorance of the law is not an excuse, given that such actions can lead to harm, division, and erosion of trust in public institutions,” OPAG stated.

The association further reminded online content creators and publishers of the legal implications of their actions, citing existing laws that govern digital conduct in Ghana.

“All online publishers and practitioners must at all times be wary of the fact that the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) and the Electronic Communications Act (Act 775) are used to prosecute culprits of online harassment and defamation, for which they must desist from such behaviour,” it cautioned.

OPAG emphasised the need for a safer and more respectful digital ecosystem, stressing that the online space must be used to promote unity rather than division.

“It is the view of OPAG that the online space would become a safe platform for social cohesion. We need to promote responsible online behaviour and respect for individuals' dignity. We must be guided by standards and make the online space friendly and useful to society,” the statement added.

The association also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting digital literacy as a means of tackling misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech.

“OPAG is committed to its advocacy for digital literacy aimed at curbing misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and polarised narratives such as that of Priscila Ansong,” it noted.

OPAG concluded by expressing its readiness to work with relevant stakeholders to encourage constructive dialogue and promote fact-based discussions in Ghana’s digital space.

“We are ready to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure constructive dialogue and fact-based discussions to build a more informed and respectful online space,” the statement said.

NA/BAI

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