Ghana Gender Ministry Condemns Viral Video of Child Pressured to Smoke: Calls for Immediate Arrest

Published: November 21, 2025 | Source: Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a swift and firm response to a disturbing viral video circulating on social media, Ghana’s Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has publicly condemned the footage showing several males coercing a young boy into smoking a cigarette. This incident, which has sparked widespread outrage, highlights critical issues in child protection in Ghana and underscores the urgent need for immediate legal action against child abusers. The ministry’s statement labels the act as abusive, a direct violation of the child’s rights and dignity, and a form of child endangerment punishable under Ghanaian law.

Why does this matter? Social media amplifies such traumatic events, reaching millions and prompting national discussions on child rights violations in Ghana. As the country engages in the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, this case serves as a stark reminder of shared responsibilities to safeguard vulnerable children. This article breaks down the ministry’s response, relevant laws like the Children’s Act 1998 (Act 560), and practical steps for prevention.

Analysis

The Viral Video Incident

The video in question depicts a group of males pressuring a tender-aged boy to inhale cigarette smoke, an act that exposes him to harmful toxins like nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. Pediatric studies from organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) confirm that even brief exposure to tobacco smoke in children can lead to immediate respiratory distress, increased risk of asthma, and long-term developmental harm. In Ghana, where tobacco use among youth is a growing concern, such peer or adult coercion exacerbates public health challenges.

Social Media’s Role in Child Abuse Exposure

Viral videos like this one spread rapidly on platforms such as TikTok, Twitter (X), and Facebook, often garnering millions of views before moderation. While social media can raise awareness, it also risks re-traumatizing the victim and glorifying abuse. Ghana’s Ministry of Gender has leveraged this visibility to demand accountability, forwarding the video to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service for swift investigation.

Psychological and Health Impacts on the Child

Forcing a child to smoke inflicts both physical and emotional trauma. Psychologically, it erodes the child’s sense of safety, potentially leading to anxiety, low self-esteem, and behavioral issues, as outlined in child psychology frameworks from UNICEF. Physically, secondhand smoke exposure in minors heightens risks of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) analogs and chronic diseases, per WHO data.

Summary

Ghana’s Gender Ministry has issued a strong condemnation of a viral social media video where males force a young boy to smoke, describing it as abusive child endangerment. Referencing the Children’s Act 1998 (Act 560) and national early childhood policies, the ministry urges immediate arrest and prosecution by police. It calls on families, communities, and leaders to intensify child protection efforts amid the 16 Days of Activism campaign. The video has been escalated to the CID for urgent action.

Key Points

Practical Advice

How to Report Child Abuse in Ghana

If you encounter or witness child abuse, contact the Ghana Police Service emergency line (dial 191) or the Ministry of Gender’s hotline. Document evidence safely without sharing victim-identifying details online to avoid further harm.

Parenting Tips for Child Safety

Parents and guardians should monitor children’s online exposure, educate on the dangers of smoking (e.g., WHO factsheets show youth smoking triples lung cancer risk), and foster open communication. Enroll in community programs under Ghana’s child protection frameworks to build resilience.

Community Roles in Prevention

Traditional leaders and religious groups can host awareness workshops. Schools should integrate child rights education Ghana curricula, teaching refusal skills against peer pressure.

Points of Caution

• Avoid sharing unverified viral videos that could re-victimize children or spread misinformation.
• Do not confront suspects directly; report to authorities to ensure professional handling.
• Guardians must supervise social media use, as platforms’ algorithms can expose kids to harmful content.
• Recognize signs of coercion: sudden behavioral changes, coughs, or secrecy about peers.
• Collective vigilance is key—inaction enables abuse cycles, per UNICEF Ghana reports.

Comparison

Vs. Other Child Abuse Cases in Ghana

This incident mirrors recent cases, like the 2023 viral beating of a child in Accra, where public outcry led to arrests under the same Children’s Act. Unlike physical beatings, smoking coercion adds a substance abuse layer, akin to the 2022 tramadol-laced incidents targeting minors.

Global Parallels

Internationally, similar videos from Nigeria (2024 child forced into drugs) and India (peer smoking dares) have prompted UN interventions. Ghana’s proactive ministry response contrasts with slower reactions in some regions, emphasizing stronger enforcement.

Legal Implications

Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560)

This cornerstone legislation mandates protection of every child from “physical, mental, and moral harm.” Section 5 prohibits maltreatment, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. Forcing smoking qualifies as endangerment, potentially leading to custodial sentences for perpetrators.

Early Childhood Care and Development Policy

Ghana’s policy ensures nurturing environments free from hazards like tobacco exposure, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 16.3 on justice for children.

Police and Prosecution Process

The ministry’s referral to CID triggers investigations under the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). Successful prosecutions reinforce deterrence, as seen in prior child rights cases.

Conclusion

The Ghana Gender Ministry’s condemnation of the viral video of a child pressured to smoke reaffirms the nation’s commitment to child protection Ghana. By invoking the Children’s Act 1998 and rallying stakeholders during the 16 Days of Activism, it transforms outrage into action. Protecting children’s rights is a collective duty—through vigilance, education, and enforcement, Ghana can build safer futures. Stay informed, report abuse, and advocate for the vulnerable.

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