THE Omanhene of the Essikado Traditional Area in the Western Region, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, has urged authorities to take firm measures to regulate immoral content on social media, warning that the unchecked spread of inappropriate material is fostering a culture of impunity and undermining Ghanaian values.
While social media is a powerful tool with the potential to educate, connect, and empower citizens, it is being exploited by many content creators in pursuit of popularity and profit at the cost of decency and national integrity.
Speaking to the Graphic Showbiz after the inauguration of the Pan-African Progressive Front (PPF) headquarters in Accra on Monday, July 7, 2025, he said the misuse of social media was fueling moral decay, particularly among the youth and authorities have been slow to act.
“There’s so much power in the digital space. But what are we using it for? To spread falsehoods, glorify violence, and promote superficiality? That’s not the Africa we want. We should tell stories that inspire, educate and challenge us to do better.”
According to the traditional ruler, the state’s slow response to the increasing crisis of online misconduct has fostered an environment where offensive content flourishes with little accountability. However, he emphasised that the responsibility does not lie solely with the government.
Content creators, he said, must also take responsibility for the content they produce and the values they endorse.
He emphasised that the potential of social media should not be wasted on trivial pursuits and urged the youth to utilise the power of digital platforms to preserve culture, spread positive messages, and build stronger communities.
There are more meaningful ways to utilise social media than what we are currently witnessing. We must reclaim that space. Young people are observing and learning. If we keep providing them with harmful content, we are damaging our own future.
He also urged Ghanaians to be vigilant and conscious media consumers, warning against unquestioningly accepting everything shared online. (Read Revival of cinemas ‘cure’ for Kumawood ––Film producer Jackson K Bentum)
“We must question everything we are told. Do not accept things unquestioningly. Be aware, be conscious.
Turning to broader societal issues, the omanhen spoke passionately about the importance of humility and authenticity in public life.
He criticised the increasing culture of materialism among leaders and elites, describing it as un-African and disconnected from the lived experiences of everyday citizens.
“It is not African to drive big cars and carry grand titles while the man on the street is suffering,” he said. “Let us share in the pain of others. Leadership should be about service and empathy, not ego and excess.”
Nana Nketsia V called for a renewed sense of community, national consciousness and integrity, emphasising that the continent's future depends on Africans safeguarding their values and holding one another accountable online and offline.
