Martha Ankomah’s GH¢5 Million Defamation Suit Against Lilwin Heads to Trial 

The High Court in Accra has been informed that proposals for an out-of-court settlement in the GH¢5 million defamation suit against Kumawood actor Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as Lilwin, have failed. As a result, the lawyers for the plaintiff, Martha Ankomah, have requested that the matter proceed to trial.

In July, the High Court was informed of the possibility of a settlement, leading to an adjournment. However, that attempt has now failed, and the case is set to continue.

Lilwin has been taken to court by Martha Ankomah over alleged disparaging comments made about her in public. The actress claims that Lilwin’s statements have harmed her reputation and the brand GTP.

On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, Justice Forson Agyapong Baah was informed by Martha Ankomah’s lawyers, led by Nii Apatu Plange, that Lilwin was not ready for settlement. “We made our proposals to the intermediary, but he later informed us that it did not seem the defendant was ready for settlement, so I will say that settlement could not be achieved,” the counsel for the plaintiff stated.

Justice Baah adjourned the case to November 5, 2024, for hearing, directing that hearing notices, along with the day’s notes, be issued and served on Lilwin. Lilwin was absent from court, and there was no legal representation for him.

Martha Ankomah claims that Lilwin falsely accused her of expressing disdain towards Kumawood actors due to their perceived lack of quality storylines. She argues that Lilwin’s published words were defamatory and is demanding GH¢5 million in damages, compensatory damages, aggravated damages, and an order directing Lilwin to publish an apology and retraction.

The dispute originated from Martha Ankomah’s comments on Accra-based Accra FM, where she expressed disinterest in collaborating with Kumawood actors due to witchcraft storylines. Lilwin responded critically, leading to Martha Ankomah’s legal action.

With the case heading to trial, the court will now determine the merits of Martha Ankomah’s claims and Lilwin’s potential liability for defamation.