The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has strongly condemned the reported assault on businessman and art patron Ibrahim Mahama, describing the incident as “totally unacceptable” and symptomatic of a troubling pattern of abuse.
In a public message addressed to Mr. Mahama, the Minister expressed “deep concern and regret” over the incident and conveyed solidarity on behalf of the Ministry and herself. She emphasized Mr. Mahama’s significant contributions to Ghana’s creative sector, particularly through Red Clay Studio, noting that his work has elevated contemporary Ghanaian art and strengthened the country’s global cultural presence.
The Minister disclosed that she has engaged the Minister for the Interior, who assured her that the Inspector-General of Police has initiated investigations into the matter. She stressed the need for accountability, stating that incidents that undermine personal dignity and safety must be treated with utmost seriousness in a country that upholds justice and the rule of law.
Speaking in an interview on Citi Prime News, Hon. Gomashie revealed that she reached out directly to Mr. Mahama after learning of the incident through a colleague. According to her, Mr. Mahama recounted his ordeal, after which she sought his consent to escalate the matter to the appropriate authorities. She expressed dissatisfaction with recurring reports of alleged misconduct by security personnel, warning that failure to address such issues decisively could erode public trust.
“This is one too many,” she said, adding that while citizens may express frustrations with security agencies, it does not justify abuse. She questioned the persistence of such incidents, citing past cases where alleged perpetrators were not held accountable. “Who is going to be next?” she asked, underscoring the urgency of systemic reform.
The Minister further highlighted Mr. Mahama’s standing as a respected figure with no known record of misconduct, noting that he had recently been honoured with privileges in recognition of his contributions to Ghana. She argued that if such treatment could be meted out to a person of his stature, ordinary citizens might be even more vulnerable.
Beyond calling for investigations, the Minister assured that the Ministry is providing support to Mr. Mahama as he may require of the Ministry adding that he would been offered assistance throughout his recovery and any subsequent pursuit of justice. “We are a phone call away,” she said, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to the well-being of stakeholders within the creative ecosystem.
While cautioning against prejudging the outcome of investigations, the Minister noted that the visible evidence of harm has already evoked widespread public sympathy. She called on the police to conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry and to ensure that any wrongdoing is duly punished.
The Ministry has also extended its concern to the broader public, reiterating its stance against abuse and its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all Ghanaians.
Source: Public Relations Unit=MoTCCA
