What began as a heartbreaking appeal by a 17-year-old single mother on Nhyira FM’s Obra Show escalated into a tense paternity dispute, forcing producers to adjourn the case pending DNA testing.
The case took a dramatic turn during the live programme as fresh revelations and counter-accusations surfaced following the teenager’s claim that her boyfriend had abandoned her and their newborn child.
The girl claimed the man, whom she identified as the father of her baby, disappeared shortly after childbirth, abandoning both his parental responsibilities and earlier promises of support. Visibly emotional, she said she had been left alone to face the realities of motherhood, battling financial hardship and social pressure.
“When I got pregnant, he said I should not worry. Now I am alone with the baby, and everybody is blaming me,” she said.
However, as the interrogation progressed, deeper family issues emerged. Members of her maternal family told the show that the teenager often leaves home and returns at her own discretion, making efforts at guidance difficult.
They revealed that although attempts were made to keep her in school, she consistently failed to concentrate on her education.
It was further disclosed that she allegedly began engaging in sexual relationships at the age of thirteen and later associated with individuals involved in alcohol and drug use; revelations that visibly shifted the direction of the discussion.
“We have tried our best as a family to guide her, but she leaves the house and comes back whenever she wants. It has been very difficult to control her,” explained Hannah, her maternal aunt.
As the claims unfolded, Jerry B, the man accused of being the child’s father, was brought onto the programme. He denied abandoning responsibility but insisted that doubts over paternity made it impossible for him to accept the child without proof. He accused the teenager of maintaining relationships with other men during the same period, saying this uncertainty forced him to withdraw.
“I am ready to take responsibility if the child is proven to be mine, but until then, I cannot be forced,” he said.
The mounting revelations triggered a tense exchange in the studio, with the teenager becoming increasingly aggressive. Host Ohemaa Benewaa, who at the beginning of the programme expressed sympathy for the teenager under the assumption that her mother’s family had neglected her, stepped in to restore order.
“This programme is about truth, accountability, and solutions,” Ohemaa Benewaa stated. “Emotions are understandable, but we must allow facts to lead us if justice is to be served.”
Neighbours and relatives described the teenager as overwhelmed and emotionally fragile, noting that she often breaks down under the pressure of caring for her child alone. They added that the alleged disappearance of the child’s father has worsened her already vulnerable situation, leaving her future uncertain.
As discussions continued, panel members cautioned against allowing blame to overshadow accountability. Lady Gold White, a panel member on the show, pointed out that while the teenager’s age makes her vulnerable, personal choices still carry consequences, particularly when a child’s welfare is involved.
“No matter your age or background, choices have consequences. This child must not suffer because adults failed to act responsibly,” she said.
From a moral standpoint, Evangelist Degraft Addae urged all parties to submit to truth and correction, warning that unresolved conflicts only deepen the suffering of innocent children.
“When values break down, innocent lives pay the price. Everyone involved must submit to truth and correction,” he stated.
Gifty Donkor shifted the focus back to the baby, stressing that the child’s identity and care must take precedence over public accusations. She noted that without clarity on paternity, the child risks growing up without stability or support.
“At this point, the focus should not be blame, but the future of the baby. Establishing the truth is the only way forward,” she said.
In light of the conflicting accounts, producers of the Obra Show adjourned the case. Arrangements are underway to contact two other men mentioned during the programme, after which DNA testing will be conducted to determine the biological father of the child.
As the show ended, Ohemaa Benewaa reminded listeners that while mistakes may have been made on all sides, the ultimate responsibility lies in safeguarding the life and future of the child.
Until DNA establishes the truth, she noted, accusations alone cannot deliver justice. “This child deserves care, identity, and support. Truth must come first, so responsibility can follow,” she said.
