Pour Libation and Go" – An MTTD Officer After Checking the License of a Private Vehicle Owner

A viral video circulating on social media has sparked widespread reactions after an officer of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) was caught subtly demanding a bribe from a private vehicle owner.

In the footage, the officer is seen stopping a vehicle to conduct routine checks. He first requests the driver's vehicle documents and carefully examines them. After verifying the papers, he proceeds to check the driver’s license. However, upon closer inspection, he realizes that the driver has exceeded the legally permitted number of passengers for a private vehicle.

Instead of issuing a fine or taking official action, the officer, seemingly unwilling to waste time, utters the phrase “pour libation and go,” a term which, in this context, is understood as a coded way of asking for a bribe. In response, the driver discreetly pulls out a 5-cedi note, presumably as an offering.

However, the officer appears visibly displeased with the amount and reacts with frustration. The video ends abruptly, leaving viewers uncertain about what transpired next. Unbeknownst to the officer, the driver had secretly recorded the entire encounter, leading to the footage being shared widely online.

Ghanaians have taken to social media to express their thoughts on the incident. One user humorously remarked, “Officers have terms oooo, what is ‘Pour Libation?’ 😂😂😂.” Another person commented, “They need body cameras seriously,” highlighting concerns about accountability within the police force.

While some netizens condemned the officer’s actions, others defended such informal settlements, arguing that strict enforcement of traffic laws could make life difficult for drivers. One comment read, “That’s all, the officers are trying. If they say they will be 100% strict, a lot of people can’t even move. Sometimes, it’s just a harmless gesture.”

Others, however, found the amount amusing, with one individual sarcastically stating, “Pour libation and you’re giving him 5 cedis? What a disrespect! What if he arrested you? Do you know how much the bail would be?”