MP Yakubu Mohammed Faces Disciplinary Petitions and Public Outcry Over Inappropriate Remarks to Schoolgirl

Ahafo Ano South East Member of Parliament, Yakubu Mohammed, is at the center of a growing national controversy following inappropriate remarks made to a nine-year-old primary school pupil during a recent educational visit to Parliament. In a video that quickly went viral, Mohammed was captured complimenting the student’s appearance and joking that he would marry her when she grew up. The incident has sparked significant public outrage, with critics arguing that such comments from a public official are not only unprofessional but also reinforce harmful stereotypes and undermine the safety of children in official environments.

In response to the backlash, Mohammed issued an unqualified apology on July 31, 2026, acknowledging that his remarks were "inappropriate" and "unfortunate." He explained that the comments were intended as a "playful cultural jest" rooted in the traditional joking relationship between the Mossi and Dagomba ethnic groups. However, the MP admitted that cultural nuances do not justify such language when directed at a minor. He expressed deep regret for the discomfort caused to the child, her family, and The Citasel School, and he announced that he has initiated efforts to apologize personally to the affected parties to reaffirm his commitment to children's rights.

Despite the apology, political figures and advocates are calling for institutional accountability. Akosua Manu, a Gender and Social Protection Advisor and former NPP parliamentary candidate, has officially petitioned Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin to investigate the MP’s conduct. Manu argues that the remarks breached parliamentary standards and violated provisions of the Children’s Act, necessitating a formal inquiry and potential sanctions. Similarly, Obaa Yaa Frimpong, Chairperson of the NPP-USA Branch, characterized the apology as insufficient, describing the incident as an institutional failure in Parliament’s duty of care toward visiting students.

Human rights organizations have also demanded structural reforms to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Rights Accountability Network Africa (RANA) has urged Parliament to implement comprehensive child safeguarding protocols and has recommended that MP Yakubu Mohammed be barred from official engagements involving children until he completes accredited safeguarding training. Rev. Hornam Adzraku-Kevi of the Purim African Youth Development Platform further stressed that leaders must inspire girls to value education and leadership over physical appearance, urging a shift in how public officials interact with the youth.

As the Speaker considers the petitions, the incident has highlighted a significant gap in the protection of minors within public spaces in Ghana. Advocates are pushing for the matter to be referred to the Privileges Committee for a formal reprimand and for the introduction of mandatory child safeguarding training for all Members of Parliament. This case serves as a critical reminder of the influence leaders wield over young citizens and the institutional responsibility to ensure that state environments like Parliament remain safe, professional, and inspiring spaces for the next generation of leaders.