Lawson Multimedia, which operates Lawson TV and Lawson Radio, has formally apologized after a broadcast on its popular show Afisem drew public criticism for revealing the identity of a sexual abuse victim.
The episode, hosted by Maame Frimpomaa Korankye, featured Josephine, a 17-year-old who recounted years of sexual abuse by a 66-year-old man. According to her account, the abuse began when she was just seven years old and lasted a decade, during which the perpetrator failed to fulfill promises made to her.
Following the airing, viewers were alarmed to see the minor’s full identity visible on screen, sparking widespread online outrage. The incident prompted Lawson Multimedia to release an official communique acknowledging the mistake and issuing an unqualified apology.
The statement confirmed that the broadcast violated both internal editorial policies and national broadcasting regulations by failing to conceal the minor’s identity. The media house described the lapse as a severe breach of child protection and privacy protocols.
Lawson Multimedia extended apologies to Josephine and her family, the National Media Commission, the National Communications Authority, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and the general public. They acknowledged that the oversight was a serious error and pledged greater vigilance in future broadcasts to prevent similar incidents.
This apology comes amid growing scrutiny over how media organizations handle sensitive cases involving minors, with child protection advocates emphasizing the need for strict adherence to privacy standards in journalism.