Award-winning actress Lydia Forson has expressed deep concern over what she describes as a growing pedophilia problem in Ghana, urging victims—especially minors—to break their silence and demand justice.
In a statement shared on social media, Forson referenced the viral TikTok campaign under the hashtag #JusticeForOchanya, where several girls have come forward to share experiences of sexual abuse, many implicating teachers and authority figures.
“These stories reveal a disturbing pattern of manipulation and exploitation,” she said.
Forson explained how abuse often begins with subtle grooming tactics—compliments, touches, or small gestures—before escalating into full-blown assault. She noted that perpetrators are often trusted figures in schools and communities, making it even harder for victims to speak out.
“Teachers wait until the last day of school, just when students are leaving, to make their move. In their minds, you’re no longer a student. It happens in secondary schools and even universities. And if adults struggle to fight back, how much harder is it for a teenager?” she lamented.
The actress criticized the “culture of silence and protection” around predators, revealing that many cases reported in schools are ignored or covered up by authorities.
“I remember an incident in a girls’ school where students reported a teacher. After investigations, it didn’t go anywhere. He continued to teach. Even when you think the girls are ‘interested,’ the law sets an age of consent for a reason; children can’t truly consent, and adults should know better,” she said.
Forson extended her message to male victims as well, noting that boys also suffer sexual abuse, though society often dismisses it.
“We have a pedophilia problem in this country. Until we start holding adults accountable, nothing will change,” she warned, calling for urgent national reflection and action from parents, schools, and law enforcement to stop shielding offenders and start protecting victims.
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