Former Signals Bureau Head Sues Ghana’s Attorney General for Defamation

Kwabena Adu-Boahene, former head of Ghana’s Signals Bureau, and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, have initiated a defamation lawsuit against Attorney General Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine over remarks made during a March 24, 2025, press conference.

The couple alleges that Ayine falsely accused them of criminal acts, causing significant harm to their personal and professional reputations.

In a writ filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, 2025, the plaintiffs claim Ayine’s statements were “highly offensive and defamatory,” broadcast widely without justification. They seek punitive damages, a perpetual injunction to prevent further publication of similar remarks, and coverage of legal fees. The lawsuit underscores the gravity of accusations involving public figures, particularly when issued by a high-ranking official like the Attorney General.

Adu-Boahene, who previously led the Signals Bureau—a key intelligence unit under the Ghana Armed Forces—and his wife argue that Ayine’s comments lacked evidence and violated their rights to dignity under Ghana’s Constitution. The case raises questions about the legal boundaries of public statements by government officials, especially those wielding prosecutorial authority.

Defamation lawsuits involving senior officials are rare in Ghana but carry implications for free speech and accountability. Legal experts note that for the plaintiffs to succeed, they must prove Ayine’s statements were false, harmful, and made with malice or negligence. Conversely, the Attorney General may invoke defenses such as truth or qualified privilege if the remarks were tied to official duties.

The court’s decision could set a precedent for balancing reputational rights against the public interest in governmental transparency. While Ayine has yet to publicly respond to the suit, the case has drawn attention to the responsibilities of officials in framing allegations, particularly against individuals no longer in public service.

This litigation follows a global trend where public figures increasingly turn to courts to address reputational harm, testing legal frameworks in an era of rapid information dissemination. As proceedings unfold, the outcome may influence how Ghana’s judiciary navigates conflicts between state authority and individual rights in high-profile disputes.

Read the full suit below: