President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has dismissed the controversial Agyapadie document as a malicious fabrication. The document, which has been widely circulated on social media, alleges plans by some government members from Akyem Abuakwa, the President’s hometown, to enrich themselves and future generations to control the country’s destiny.
Speaking at the inaugural Ghana Report Summit, themed “Dealing with Misinformation and Disinformation – Election 2024,” the President highlighted the harmful effects of misinformation on individuals, society, and democracy. He shared personal experiences of dealing with what he described as malicious lies, emphasising the need for vigilance and critical thinking in the face of false information.
“The Agyapadie document is a clear example of the destructive power of misinformation,” President Akufo-Addo stated. “It has no basis in fact, yet it has been spread with reckless abandon, causing harm to innocent people and undermining trust in our institutions.”
The President urged Ghanaians to be cautious of false information, especially as the 2024 elections approach. He encouraged citizens to verify information through credible sources and report suspicious content to the appropriate authorities. To combat misinformation, President Akufo-Addo proposed a multi-faceted approach, including media literacy programs to educate citizens on critically evaluating information, collaborations among government, civil society, and social media platforms to identify and counter false narratives, and strengthening institutions to ensure transparency and accountability.
The event, convened by Madam Rashida Saani and hosted by Ga Mantse, facilitated a thought-provoking discussion, bringing together experts and stakeholders to share insights and solutions on the pressing issue of misinformation.
As the country prepares for the 2024 elections, the Ghana Report Summit serves as a timely reminder of the need for collective action against misinformation.
