Accra, Ghana – Reports have surfaced alleging that Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Member of Parliament for South Dayi, has filed a defamation suit against Rev John Ntim Fordjour, the MP for Assin South. Both are prominent figures in Ghanaian politics, with Fordjour also serving as the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee. However, the situation remains unclear, as Fordjour has publicly denied receiving any legal notice related to the purported Fordjour defamation suit. This denial creates significant uncertainty surrounding the reported legal action, leaving many to wonder if and when the matter will proceed.

In a statement released on Thursday, 16 May 2025, Fordjour addressed the media reports directly, aiming to clarify his position on the unfolding situation. This report aims to provide an update on Fordjour’s response to the news.

Fordjour Denies Receiving Legal Notice

Fordjour’s Official Statement

“Media reports of a suit supposedly filed by my colleague, the Hon. Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, have come to my attention,” Fordjour stated. “I have, however, not been served with any such suit.” This denial is significant because, under Ghanaian law, a suit is only formally initiated once the defendant has been officially served with the legal documents. Without this crucial step, the legal process cannot move forward, casting doubt on the immediate future of the reported lawsuit. Fordjour’s statement, released on Thursday, 16 May 2025, underscores the ambiguity surrounding the alleged legal proceedings.

Focus on Parliamentary Duties

Despite the uncertainty, Fordjour has emphasized his commitment to his parliamentary duties. As the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, he plays a critical role in overseeing national security and internal affairs. He said, “I would not be distracted by what he described as an unsubstantiated legal move.” This statement signals Fordjour’s intention to remain focused on his responsibilities as an MP, regardless of the media speculation surrounding the Fordjour defamation suit. His commitment to his role underscores the importance of his work in Parliament.

Prepared to Respond

While denying having received any official notification, Fordjour also stated his readiness to address the matter formally if and when he is properly served. “I therefore await the service of the supposed suit and will demonstrate that it is of no merit,” he asserted. This suggests that Fordjour is prepared to defend himself against the alleged defamation claims, should they materialize into a formal legal challenge. His willingness to engage with the legal process, once initiated, indicates a proactive approach to addressing the concerns raised in the media.

Dafeamekpor’s Alleged Lawsuit: What We Know

Media Reports and Speculation

The reports of Dafeamekpor initiating legal action against Fordjour have been circulating in various media outlets. However, concrete details about the suit remain scarce. While it is widely reported that Dafeamekpor is pursuing a defamation claim, the specific grounds for this claim have not been publicly disclosed. This lack of transparency has fueled speculation and uncertainty surrounding the matter.

Unanswered Questions

Several key questions remain unanswered. What are the specific statements or actions that Dafeamekpor alleges to be defamatory? What is Dafeamekpor’s response to Fordjour’s denial of having received the legal notice? And what is the anticipated timeline for the lawsuit, assuming it proceeds? These unanswered questions contribute to the overall ambiguity of the situation. Until these details are clarified, the nature and scope of the alleged Fordjour defamation suit remain unclear.

Potential Implications and Next Steps

Political Ramifications

The reported legal dispute, whether substantiated or not, carries potential political ramifications. A formal lawsuit between two Members of Parliament could strain the relationship between them and potentially impact their ability to collaborate on legislative matters. Furthermore, such a dispute could create divisions within the Ghanaian parliament, affecting broader political dynamics.

Legal Process and Outlook

In Ghana, a defamation lawsuit typically involves several stages, beginning with the service of the writ of summons to the defendant. The defendant then has the opportunity to file a defense, after which the case proceeds to trial. Possible outcomes range from a dismissal of the case to a judgment in favor of the plaintiff, which could include an award of damages. Given that Fordjour denies having been served, the immediate legal process remains uncertain.

What Happens Next?

The next steps depend on whether Dafeamekpor will formally serve Fordjour with the lawsuit. If Fordjour is served, he is expected to respond. If Fordjour is not served, it is difficult to assess if the reports are substantive.

In conclusion, Rev John Ntim Fordjour has denied receiving any legal notice regarding the reported defamation suit filed by Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, creating uncertainty around the reported legal action. With official details from Dafeamekpor still lacking, the situation remains fluid. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops, including if Dafeamekpor chooses to move forward with the so-called Fordjour defamation suit.