In a landmark legal case that has captured national attention, the High Court of Accra has ruled against Deborah Seyram Adablah, a former National Service personnel who sued her alleged “sugar daddy,” Ernest Kwasi Nimako, for breach of contract. The court dismissed her case, citing that it was based on an immoral relationship and therefore unenforceable under Ghanaian law. Adablah has expressed her intention to appeal the decision.
Background of the Case
Deborah Seyram Adablah filed a lawsuit in January 2023, alleging that Ernest Kwasi Nimako, the former Chief Finance Officer of First Atlantic Bank, made several promises during their relationship. These promises included purchasing a car, paying for her accommodation for three years, providing a monthly stipend of GH₵3,000, marrying her after divorcing his wife, and offering a lump sum to start a business. Adablah claimed that while Nimako initially fulfilled some of these promises, he later took back the car and paid for only one year of accommodation instead of the agreed three years. She sought legal redress to enforce the agreement.
Court’s Ruling
Justice John Bosco Nabarese, presiding over the case, acknowledged the immoral nature of the relationship between Adablah and Nimako. The court emphasized that it could not endorse or enforce a contract that stems from an immoral act, stating, “You cannot recover the price of something you have committed into an immoral act.” Consequently, the court dismissed Adablah’s case and ordered her to pay a cost of GH₵10,000.
Legal Implications
Legal experts have weighed in on the case, highlighting its significance in Ghana’s legal landscape. Gertrude Amorkor Armah, a lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, noted that the court’s decision reinforces the principle that contracts promoting sexual immorality are unenforceable. She explained that while the agreement may have met the technical requirements of a contract, its foundation in an immoral act rendered it void under public policy.
Adablah’s Response
Despite the court’s ruling, Deborah Seyram Adablah remains determined to pursue justice. She has announced her intention to appeal the decision, expressing confidence that the legal system will ultimately support her claims. In a statement on social media, Adablah declared, “The case is NOT OVER!”
Public Reaction
The case has sparked widespread public debate in Ghana, with many expressing support for Adablah’s pursuit of justice, while others criticize the nature of the relationship and the promises made. The outcome of the appeal is eagerly awaited, as it may set a precedent for similar cases in the future.