Founder of Worldwide Miracle Outreach, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh has apologised to the University of Ghana following comments he made on the GTV Breakfast Show on Thursday, October 24, 2024.
In a statement released on October 29, Rev. Dr. Tetteh expressed regret for his remarks, which, according to him, were not intended to undermine the university, spread fear, create stigma, or mislead the public.
In an interview on GTV’s Breakfast Show, the preacher indicated that there is a high prevalence of HIV infections among students at the University.
“The number of boys and girls in Legon who are HIV positive, you would have the biggest shock of your life. This is sad, this is sad and I’m happy I’m saying this on national TV,” he said on October 24.
“Some of these young boys and young girls already on campus are living promiscuous lives and they have already contracted HIV/AIDS. These are people I have prayed for… and I’m not talking about 10 years, 5 years,” the pastor added.
But in a press release dated October 24, 2024, the University labelled Rev. Tetteh’s remarks as “unfounded, insensitive, and disappointing,” noting that his assertions lack any data-backed evidence and risk promoting fear, stigma, and misinformation.
The institution found his assertion distasteful and condemned it while demanding an apology.
In today’s response, the clergyman clarified that his intention was not to single out the university or its students but rather to highlight broader challenges faced by the youth.
Rev. Dr. Tetteh stated that his line of duty involves interacting with many individuals who share confidential information about personal and sensitive matters.
He reiterated his commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of those who confide in him and acknowledged the unintended impact of his comments.
“It is rather unfortunate that in referring to the youth with such problems, I linked or associated it with students of the University of Ghana, thereby giving the university community cause for worry,” Rev. Dr. Tetteh stated in his apology.
He offered a retraction of his statements and reiterated his deep regret for any distress caused.
Rev. Dr. Tetteh reaffirmed his respect for the institution and the trust placed in him by those who share personal information with him.