The EIB Network strongly condemns the violent attack on our Legal Affairs Correspondent, Murtala Inusah, by supporters of Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako at the High Court in Accra.
This unprovoked and unacceptable assault occurred during Murtala’s coverage of the ongoing trial involving the embattled prophet and his wife, Mouha Amoako, parents of a 16-year-old alleged to have caused a tragic crash on Saturday, October 12, 2024.
However, Murtala Inusah has formally filed a report at the Ministries Police Station in Accra following some injuries he sustained yesterday in the line of duty.
The police, in a statement disclosed the arrests of Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako and his wife, Mouha Amoako, on Tuesday, October 15. The charges relate to the actions of their son, who, while driving a Jaguar SUV (GN 7801-20), collided with a 4×4 Acura vehicle (GR 2542-23) driven by Joseph Ackah. The crash resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left others critically injured.
Meanwhile, the prophet and his wife have been granted a GHS50,000 bail each after pleading not guilty.
Below is the full statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 17, 2024
Press Release:
Condemnation of Attack on EIB Court Correspondent at the Accra High Court
The EIB Network strongly condemns the violent attack on our Legal Affairs Correspondent, Murtala Inusah, by supporters of Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako at the High Court in Accra. This unprovoked and unacceptable assault occurred during Murtala’s coverage of the ongoing trial involving the embattled prophet and his wife, Mouha Amoako, parents of a 16-year-old alleged to have caused a tragic crash on Saturday, October 12, 2024.
While performing his duties as a journalist, Murtala Inusah was physically assaulted by the supporters of the bishop and sustained multiple cuts on his wrist. His mobile phone was also seized during the attack. Murtala, an award-winning court reporter, was attempting to film the court session when he was met with hostility by members of the group affiliated with Alive Chapel International, who were protesting against the prophet’s arrest.
The supporters’ actions are not only a direct attack on Murtala Inusah but also a grave violation of press freedom and the rights of journalists to report without fear or intimidation. The media plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability, especially in matters of public interest such as this ongoing case.
We call on the Ghana Police Service to take swift and decisive action to investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. Attacks on journalists must not be tolerated under any circumstances. The safety and security of media professionals should be safeguarded to allow them to carry out their essential duties without fear of reprisal.
We urge all parties involved in this case, as well as the public, to respect the rule of law and the rights of the press. We also appeal to media organizations and civil society groups to join us in condemning this violent attack and standing in solidarity with Murtala Inusah and all journalists who face such risks in the course of their work.
EIB Network remains committed to delivering accurate, impartial, and timely news coverage, and we will not be deterred by acts of intimidation or violence.
BY EIB MANAGEMENT
ENDS
