Makola onion seller sues Telecel for GHS2bn over unauthorized use of image in adverts

A legal action has been initiated against telecommunications company, Telecel Ghana, by an onion seller, Madam Faustina Djageble Abbey, over what she describes as the unauthorised use of her image to promote one of the company’s digital savings products.

The trader, who plies her trade at the bustling “Kwasia Dwaso” enclave near Makola Market in Accra, is demanding GHS2 million in damages, alongside the removal of all billboards and digital content featuring her photograph without consent.

According to the writ filed at the General Jurisdiction of the High Court in Accra on May 23, Madam Abbey contends that Telecel used her image to advertise its “Telecel Red Save” product without seeking her permission.

She claims the development has subjected her and her family to ridicule, social pressure, and mental distress.

The plaintiff in the statement of claim signed by her lawyer, Bernard Owiredu Donkor of Thompson Law Consult, explains that the issue first came to her attention in February 2025, when some of her customers and neighbours began teasing and hailing her as a “TV star” and a “rich woman,” due to her face appearing in advertisements across various platforms, including billboards, television stations, and social media.

Madam Abbey insists she never gave any consent for the use of her photo, describing the act as a gross invasion of her privacy and personal liberties.

The Plaintiff says her colleagues now doubt her innocence and believe she was secretly paid by Telecel, straining long-held relationships in the market.

As part of her reliefs, Madam Abbey is asking the court to declare that her image rights have been violated, order the telecommunications company to pay compensation, and direct the removal of all advertisements featuring her photograph.