TikToker jailed for false claims about Mahama and ‘32 cows’ ritual

TikToker Camilla Alhassan has been sentenced to one year in prison after pleading guilty to publishing false information about President John Dramani Mahama.

Alhassan, 43, was convicted by an Accra Circuit Court after admitting to charges of offensive conduct and the publication of false news stemming from videos she shared on TikTok.

The videos contained allegations that President Mahama had buried 32 cows as part of a ritual to secure victory in the 2024 general elections. She also claimed that a government initiative to distribute sanitary pads to flood victims was intended to conceal the alleged sacrifices. Authorities said the claims were unsubstantiated and lacked any evidence.

Alhassan was arrested on July 10 and pleaded guilty when she first appeared before the court. Sentencing was initially adjourned to July 16, with the court directing that she undergo a pregnancy test before judgment was delivered.

The case attracted significant public attention after the videos circulated widely on social media, sparking debate over misinformation and the spread of unverified claims online.

Her one-year custodial sentence brings an end to a case that has renewed discussions about accountability for false information shared on digital platforms.