Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, has described the reported assault on art patron and businessman Ibrahim Mahama as “totally unacceptable.”

In a statement issued in Accra, she expressed concern and regret over the incident and conveyed the Ministry’s solidarity.

The Minister said Mr Mahama’s contributions to Ghana’s creative arts sector, particularly through Red Clay Studio, had elevated contemporary Ghanaian art and enhanced the country’s global cultural presence.

She said she had engaged the Minister for the Interior, who assured her that the Inspector‑General of Police had initiated investigations into the matter.

Madam Gomashie stressed the need for accountability, stating that incidents undermining personal dignity and safety must be treated with utmost seriousness in a country governed by justice and the rule of law.

Speaking in an interview on Citi Prime News, she said she contacted Mr Mahama after learning of the incident through a colleague.

“Mr Mahama recounted his ordeal, after which I sought his consent to escalate the matter to the appropriate authorities,” she said.

She expressed concern over recurring reports of alleged misconduct by security personnel and warned that failure to address such issues could erode public trust.

“This is one too many. Although citizens may express frustrations with security agencies, it did not justify abuse. There is the urgency of systemic reforms,” she said.

The Minister noted Mr Mahama’s standing as a respected figure with no known record of misconduct and cautioned that if such treatment could be meted out to him, ordinary citizens could be more vulnerable.

She assured that the Ministry was ready to provide support to Mr Mahama, including assistance throughout his recovery and any pursuit of justice.

“We are a phone call away,” she said, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to the well‑being of stakeholders within the creative ecosystem.

Madam Gomashie cautioned against prejudging the outcome of investigations but noted that visible evidence of harm had generated public sympathy.

She called on the Police to conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry and ensure that any wrongdoing was duly punished.

The Ministry reiterated its stance against abuse and its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all Ghanaians.