The University of Ghana has responded to a recent incident of assault on a young man within the Legon campus premises. The incident, which occurred on Monday, January 15, 2024, has sparked widespread condemnation.
In an official statement, the University expressed deep concern over the incident and shared the preliminary findings of its Security Services Unit. According to the statement, a young man seeking accommodation in the Okponglo area was initially welcomed by some women. However, his true identity was revealed during the night, leading to a physical assault by the women who had initially accommodated him.
The situation escalated when a refuse collector, mistaking the young man for a woman, intervened and transported him to a refuse collection site behind Dr. Hilla Limann Hall. Upon realizing the true gender the next morning, the refuse collector also assaulted him, instructing him to leave. University of Ghana students witnessing the scene alerted Security Personnel.
Both the young man and the refuse collector, confirmed not to be students of the University, were handed over to the Legon Police for further investigation.
The University condemned the assault and any denigrating behavior shown in the videos circulating on social media. It reaffirmed its commitment to the safety, dignity, and inclusivity of all individuals, citing specific statutes prohibiting vexatious conduct based on personal attributes, including sexual orientation.
Additionally, the University pledged to collaborate with the Ghana Police Service for a thorough investigation to ensure the safety of all members of the University community and visitors.
Dr. Elizier Ameyaw-Buronyah, the Director of Public Affairs at the University of Ghana, emphasized the institution’s commitment to upholding its values and creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
Papa Kojo Ampofo, an activist and researcher for LGBTQI rights, has issued a press statement challenging the University’s position on the recent incident. He urges the institution to carry out an unbiased investigation and lay out measures to prevent future human rights violations on the campus.
Simultaneously, video footage of the incident has surfaced on social media, portraying the victim walking unclothed on campus as the assailants hurl derogatory comments about his sexual orientation.
