Family Appeals for Release of Salomey Baffoe in Jollof Case Amid Detention
Family seeks President Mahama's intervention to free detained nursing officer Salomey Awiti Baffoe, citing hardship on three children as investigations continue in Accra.
The family of Salomey Awiti Baffoe has publicly appealed to President John Dramani Mahama and his wife to secure her release from custody on compassionate grounds. Senior nursing officer Baffoe remains detained without bail after a High Court in Accra denied her freedom on September 24 amid charges tied to the Ghana Jollof TikTok controversy. Her legal representative, Nana Adjei Baffour Awuah, has joined the plea, emphasizing the urgent need for presidential intervention to alleviate her children's suffering. The woman, 40, was arrested in connection with alleged criminal abetment linked to publishing false news online, specifically involving the operation of a TikTok account accused of misleading content about Ghana Jollof rice recipes.
Investigators allege that Salomey Baffoe, a senior nursing professional at Komfo Anokyi Teaching Hospital, collaborated with Barbara Asantewaa Kodua, identified as the primary account operator, in spreading videos and mobilizing others to amplify content. Prosecutors opposing bail argued investigations remain sensitive, with potential witness interference if she were released. Though she denies all accusations and pleaded not guilty, the case centers on cyber-related offenses under police scrutiny from the start.
Her family describes mounting distress daily, stating they cannot sleep, eat or function normally due to the prolonged separation. Children repeatedly cry, unable to bear their mother's absence while struggling with educational disruptions and emotional strain. The prolonged detention has pushed them to desperate appeals for external intervention to restore normalcy.
President Mahama's office has yet to confirm receiving the petition, though advocates hope his compassion might expedite justice. Court proceedings are expected to resume soon as investigations into financial links between the accused women proceed. The outcome will likely determine whether this high-profile case settles through legal channels or intensifies public pressure.
