NPP demands release of Techiman nurse Salomey Bafoh arrested over alleged links to 'Ghana Jollof'

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised concerns over the continued remand of Techiman-based nurse Salomey Awiti Bafoh, questioning the basis for her detention and the decision to prosecute her at the Adenta Circuit Court.

Bafoh, a 40-year-old principal nursing officer and mother of three, was arrested in Techiman and later brought before the Adenta Circuit Court over her alleged involvement in the circulation of videos linked to the anonymous “Ghana Jollof” social media account.

The court on Thursday, September 17, remanded her for two weeks after the prosecution said investigations were still ongoing and cited national security concerns.

Police accuse Bafoh of abetting the publication of false news by allegedly helping one Barbara Asantewaa Kodua, also known as “Ghana Jollof”, to disseminate videos through social media.

Kodua, who is believed to be in the United Kingdom, has been listed as being at large.

In a statement issued on Friday, the NPP said it is particularly concerned about what it described as a change in the prosecution’s allegations, as well as the continued detention of Bafoh while investigations remain incomplete.

“This dramatic change in the prosecution's case raises serious questions about the basis for her continued detention," the statement read in part.

The party also questioned the territorial jurisdiction of the Adenta Circuit Court, arguing that Bafoh resides in Techiman and that the prosecution should establish what specific act constituting the alleged offence occurred within the court’s jurisdiction.

The NPP further expressed concern about what it described as an emerging pattern involving politically sensitive cases before the same court.

The party called for an immediate review of Bafoh’s continued detention and her admission to reasonable bail.

It also urged the prosecution to establish the legal and territorial basis for the charge before the Adenta Circuit Court and called on the Chief Justice and Judicial Council to take note of concerns surrounding politically sensitive cases before the court.

The NPP further urged the government and security agencies not to use the criminal justice system to intimidate or silence citizens who criticise those in power.f