Wenchiki Paramount Chief Demands Action Over Social Media Abuse, Calls for Arrest of Perpetrators

The Paramount Chief of Wenchiki, Chief Awufour, has called on the government and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to take decisive action against individuals who use social media platforms to abuse, insult and defame others.

According to the traditional leader, the growing use of social media to attack individuals and institutions has become a matter of concern, particularly as some young people increasingly engage in abusive and offensive online conduct.

Chief Awufour said social media platforms, while providing valuable opportunities for communication, information sharing and public engagement, should not be turned into avenues for harassment, threats, insults or the deliberate tarnishing of people's reputations.

He expressed concern that some users appear to disregard the consequences of their online actions, targeting personalities, traditional authorities and other members of society with offensive comments and allegations.

The Paramount Chief therefore appealed to the government and the IGP to strengthen efforts to identify individuals responsible for serious cases of social media abuse and ensure that those found to have broken the law are dealt with through the appropriate legal processes.

He called for particular attention to be paid to the online activities of young people, while urging them to understand that freedom of expression comes with responsibilities.

Chief Awufour also appealed to parents, guardians, traditional leaders, schools and other stakeholders to intensify education on responsible social media use.

He stressed that protecting freedom of expression should go hand in hand with respect, accountability and responsible conduct online.

The Paramount Chief's call comes amid broader concerns over the use of social media to spread offensive content, personal attacks and defamatory allegations, highlighting the need for users to exercise caution and respect the rights and dignity of others when engaging online.