The Government of Ghana has formally summoned the Russian Ambassador to Accra following a viral explicit video scandal involving a supposed Russian national accused of publishing sexually explicit images of Ghanaian women without their consent.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Ambassador Sergei Berdnikov was invited to the Ministry on the instruction of the Minister for Foreign Affairs to register Ghana’s strong protest over what it described as “atrocious conduct.”
The alleged actions, which have circulated widely on social media, have sparked outrage across the country, raising concerns about privacy violations, cybercrime, and the protection of Ghanaian women online.
Government Registers Strong Protest
According to the Ministry, the diplomatic engagement was intended to convey Ghana’s displeasure over the matter and to seek cooperation from the Russian Federation in ensuring accountability.
“The meeting was to formally express the Government of Ghana’s concern regarding the unlawful publication of sexually explicit images and the violation of the dignity and privacy of Ghanaian women,” the statement noted.
The government emphasised that such conduct contravenes Ghanaian law and international norms on digital rights and personal privacy.
Russia Responds
Ambassador Berdnikov reportedly acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and the broader cybercrime implications. However, he indicated that he was unable to confirm the Russian nationality of the individual at the centre of the controversy.
He further disclosed that the name circulating in sections of the media does not correspond to a recognised Russian name and, in fact, constitutes a vulgar expression in the Russian language.
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The Ambassador also revealed that similar alleged activities linked to the same individual in other countries have come to the attention of Russian authorities and are currently under investigation in Russia.
Despite the absence of a formal extradition treaty between Ghana and Russia, Ambassador Berdnikov pledged that the Embassy would cooperate with Ghanaian authorities within the framework of existing bilateral relations.
Ghana Exploring International Remedies
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured the public that it remains committed to leveraging Ghana’s diplomatic ties and international mechanisms to ensure justice is pursued.
Officials indicated that Ghana would explore all lawful avenues — including international cooperation frameworks on cybercrime — to identify, apprehend, and prosecute the suspect if the allegations are substantiated.
The incident has reignited national debate over digital safety, consent, and the growing threat of online exploitation, particularly targeting women.
As investigations continue, the government has urged the public to refrain from sharing or amplifying the explicit content and instead allow law enforcement and diplomatic channels to handle the matter.
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