Ghanaian actor Lil Win risks legal consequences after missing a crucial court date in a GHC5 million defamation lawsuit filed by actress Martha Ankomah.
On April 1, 2025, the Accra High Court expected Kumawood star Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as Lil Win, to appear and sign agreed settlement terms. However, the actor failed to attend, prompting a stern warning from the presiding judge.
The lawsuit, which began in February 2024, stems from a video Lil Win released over a year ago. In the footage, he made comments about Martha Ankomah that she claims were false and damaging to her reputation. Despite an initial apology, Ankomah rejected it, describing it as insincere and insufficient.
What Happened in Court
According to GHOneTV, the High Court had directed Lil Win to present a formal apology for approval during the April 1 session. This step was critical in the settlement process that both parties had been working toward.
However, his absence caused concern in court, leading the judge to issue a final warning. The judge made it clear that further delays could result in serious consequences for the actor.
The next steps will depend on Lil Win’s actions in the coming days. As of now, the actor has not publicly addressed the warning or provided reasons for his no-show.
Background of the Case
On February 14, 2024, Martha Ankomah filed a defamation lawsuit against Lil Win. The case followed a video that circulated widely on social media, in which Lil Win allegedly made defamatory statements about the actress.
Ankomah claimed the comments were harmful and negatively affected her personal and professional life. The suit seeks GHC5 million in damages, along with other legal remedies.
Since then, the case has gained significant public attention, especially in Ghana’s entertainment industry.
Lil Win’s Missed Deadline
At a court hearing on February 25, 2025, both parties appeared ready to settle. The judge adjourned proceedings to allow the defendant to fulfill the agreed terms by April 1. These included drafting and signing a court-approved apology.
Lil Win’s failure to meet that deadline led to the court’s warning, which was delivered on April 15, 2025—a date that coincided with his 38th birthday. The timing of the notice further amplified its visibility on social media and among fans.
Martha Ankomah: “I Want Accountability, Not Money”
Speaking to Nhyira FM, Martha Ankomah said she is committed to seeking justice, not for financial gain but to set an example.
“I don’t want a dime from him. I want him to do the right thing so people will know that you just can’t do things and get away with it in this country,” Ankomah said.
Her statement reflects a broader concern over how public figures conduct themselves and the long-term impact of misinformation and defamation.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Legal experts say the court’s warning signals the seriousness of the case. Failing to meet court-ordered deadlines in civil matters like defamation can result in penalties or court-imposed judgments.
“Courts take agreed settlement terms very seriously. Non-compliance can result in enforcement actions or even damage awards without further trial,” said Kwame Osei, a legal analyst in Accra.
What’s Next?
The next move lies with Lil Win. If he fails to comply with the settlement process or explain his absence, the case could proceed to a full trial. This could mean more legal fees, public scrutiny, and potential reputational damage.
Fans and industry insiders are closely watching how the situation unfolds, especially given the actor’s influential status in Ghana’s entertainment scene.
As of now, no new court date has been announced, but sources close to the case say the judge is likely to set one soon if there is no update from Lil Win’s legal team.
