Accra: Ghanaian journalist and host of Inside Politics on TV XYZ, Salifu Maase, known as Mugabe, has issued an apology to former Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly referred to as NAPO, for derogatory remarks made on his program. Mugabe had aired footage and an audio recording accusing NAPO of paying individuals to cause deliberate power outages to undermine the government.
According to Ghana Web, Mugabe expressed his remorse for the broadcast, which included allegations against NAPO regarding meetings with officials of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). In a statement shared on social media, Mugabe clarified, "We played an audio on this platform about ECG officials, and NAPO's name was mentioned in it, claiming he had met with some people. I apologize to the former Member of Parliament for Manhyia South and to NAPO."
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has responded by filing a defamation lawsuit against two media outlets, seeking GHS20 million in damages. The lawsuit claims that during an edition of Inside Politics, aired on TV XYZ and Power 97.9 FM, Mugabe broadcasted an audio recording accusing him of orchestrating power disruptions in the Ashanti Region.
Court documents reveal that the audio alleged meetings between ECG district engineers and political figures, who were purportedly paid to switch off electricity in parts of the region. Dr. Opoku Prempeh argues that these allegations are false and damaging to his reputation, portraying him as engaging in unlawful activities that undermine the national interest.
The legal action seeks a declaration that the statements aired on May 4, 2026, are defamatory. It also demands a public retraction and apology to be issued within seven days of judgment, along with a perpetual injunction preventing further publication of the defamatory material. Dr. Opoku Prempeh is also requesting that the media platforms be barred from spreading false claims about him, along with compensation for legal costs and any additional relief deemed appropriate by the court.