Clearing Agent Sues Meridian Port Services And Manager For GHC3 Million Over Defamation

A veteran clearing agent at the Tema Port, Mr Dominic Yaw Nkyi, has initiated a defamation lawsuit against Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS) and its Operations Manager, Mr Emmanuel Ohene Addo, seeking GH₵3 million in damages.

Filed at the High Court in Tema, the suit stems from allegations that the plaintiff’s image was publicly displayed at multiple points within the MPS terminal in March 2025, accompanied by the label “Banned.” Mr. Nkyi contends that this act was defamatory, severely harming his reputation built over 25 years in the freight forwarding and clearing industry.

According to the statement of claim, the posters—allegedly authorized by Mr Ohene Addo on behalf of MPS—suggested Mr Nkyi’s involvement in criminal activities such as container theft. He insists that he was never contacted, interrogated, or investigated before his image was circulated, and strongly denies any wrongdoing.

The incident, he explained, traces back to 2023 when he assisted a friend in obtaining a truck to load a container, which was reportedly cleared through the proper channels. However, in 2024, he was summoned by customs for questioning regarding the same container, and he maintained that he had no role in its clearance.

The subsequent public display of his image in 2025, he argues, damaged his professional credibility, and led to the loss of business, emotional trauma, and restrictions on accessing the terminal.

Represented by legal counsel Dr Sylvester Nyamekye of Nyamekye and Partners, Mr Nkyi is requesting:

A court declaration that the defendant's conduct was defamatory; GH₵3 million in compensation; a formal apology is to be visibly posted at the MPS terminal;

Payment of legal and solicitor fees; and any other relief the court deems appropriate.

A Writ of Summons and Statement of Claim has already been issued from the Tema High Court. The defendants are expected to respond within eight days or risk a default judgment.