The renowned social media influencer and aspiring lawyer, Elorm Ama Ababio, better known as Ama Governor, has publicly revealed her queer identity for the first time. Ama Governor’s announcement came during an interview on Joy News on September 23, 2023, as part of the #OccupyJulorbihouse demonstration in Accra, Ghana. Her admission is a significant milestone in her journey towards becoming a lawyer, as it had been cited as a reason for her initial denial of the call to the bar last year.
Ama Governor’s legal aspirations faced a challenging hurdle when a petition was submitted to the General Legal Council (GLC) by an anonymous “concerned citizen.” The petitioner alleged that her actions were unbecoming of an aspiring lawyer and questioned her suitability for the profession. The petition raised multiple grounds, including some unsubstantiated claims.
Speaking candidly during the interview, Ama Governor shed light on the petition and the subsequent legal proceedings. “Because a concerned citizen petitioned that I was not fit to be called to the bar, they gave two fallacious grounds and one insufficient ground, which all got thrown out, and basically, I won in conclusion,” she explained. “First of all, like as I said, the person stated fallacious grounds, they were lies, like outright fabrications.”
However, it was her acknowledgment of her sexual orientation that stood out as a pivotal moment in her journey. Ama Governor proudly declared, “I am queer, I am pansexual; yes, I sleep with women, but it is not a ground upon which you can say I am not fit to be called unto the bar, and that was our defense, and we won.”
This landmark declaration aligns with a broader movement advocating for inclusivity and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals within the legal profession. It reaffirms the principle that one’s sexual orientation should not be a barrier to pursuing a career in law or any other field.
In a recent report by the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) representative on the General Legal Council, Ama Governor has been granted the opportunity to complete the application process to be called to the bar in the upcoming October/November 2023 sessions. This decision reflects a recognition of her qualifications and her right to pursue her legal aspirations.
However, it is important to note that her conduct will be closely monitored leading up to the submission of her application to be called to the bar. As part of the monitoring process, Ama Governor will be required to sign an undertaking to exhibit good behavior while practicing as a lawyer in Ghana. This measure ensures that all lawyers uphold the highest ethical standards and professionalism in their legal careers.
Ama Governor’s journey to the legal profession has not been without challenges, but her resilience and determination have prevailed. Her willingness to openly embrace her queer identity sets a powerful example for aspiring lawyers and the broader community, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion within the legal field.
As the legal world continues to evolve, Ama Governor’s story serves as a reminder that diversity and authenticity should be celebrated and protected, fostering a more inclusive and equitable legal profession for all. Her success paves the way for others to follow their dreams without fear of discrimination based on their sexual orientation.
#OccupyJulorbiHouse: I have been working for 7 years, but there is nothing to show for it – Ama Governor.pic.twitter.com/R9kleBco0z
— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) September 23, 2023
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