A man identified as Mustapha, who was seen in a viral video hurling insults at the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has been brutally assaulted by unknown individuals and narrowly escaped lynching.
The incident, which has sparked public outrage especially among the Ashanti people, has taken a disturbing turn as the perpetrators of the assault remain at large, nearly a week after the attack.
Although Mustapha’s comments have been widely condemned as disrespectful and inflammatory, many are questioning the apparent lack of response from law enforcement in apprehending those who took the law into their own hands.
Videos and photos circulated online sighted by THE ARCHIVES following the incident, showed Mustapha with a swollen and severely disfigured face and bloodstains covering his body—raising concerns about selective enforcement of the law and the growing menace of mob justice.
The viral episode has highlighted both the deep reverence accorded to the Asantehene and the potentially dangerous consequences of perceived disrespect in the digital age.
In the initial video, Mustapha openly mocked Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s call for residents within the Ashanti Region to observe an early curfew.
He declared that “only fools will obey and sleep early”—a statement that drew immediate and widespread condemnation.
The Asantehene’s directive, issued through the Manhyia Palace, formed part of broader security measures aimed at ensuring public safety in Kumasi and its surrounding areas.
The curfew was largely welcomed by the community, who saw it as a necessary step to reduce crime and restore order.
However, the situation escalated quickly.
Reports soon emerged that Mustapha had been attacked by unknown individuals in apparent retaliation. Hours after the assault, a new video appeared on his social media page showing a visibly shaken Mustapha retracting his earlier statements and offering a profuse apology to the Asantehene and the public.
The incident underscores the significant influence traditional leadership still holds in Ghanaian society. It also serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with using social media to insult revered cultural figures.
More importantly, it brings to light the dangers of vigilantism and the urgent need for law enforcement to address such acts swiftly and impartially. While traditional institutions command respect, justice must be pursued within the bounds of the law.
As of press time, police in the Ashanti Region have yet to issue an official statement or make any arrests related to the assault.
