Accra, Feb 16, – An Accra Circuit Court has ordered businessman Mr Vince Kontoh to pay GH¢200,000 damages to Ms Ernestina Torgbor for breaching an 11-year promise to marry, while granting her beneficial interest in East Legon properties.
Justice Sedinam Awo Kwadam ruled Ms Torgbor proved a "serious and unequivocal promise" through cohabitation, financial interdependence, public acknowledgment as "in-law," and personal sacrifices including rejecting suitors and supervising construction Vince funded.
Court Awards
GH¢50,000 general damages
GH¢150,000 breach compensation
GH¢20,000 legal costs + commercial bank interest
Beneficial interest in East Legon 2-bedroom apartment
Continued use of Toyota RAV4 vehicle, industrial blender
Regularisation of stake in 6-unit apartment block
Background: The couple began their relationship in 2013. Vince, living abroad, funded machinery, vehicle, children's education, and construction. Ms Torgbor supervised projects, relocated from Dansoman to East Legon (2017) at his request, and received a ring symbolising commitment.
Vince terminated the relationship, allegedly preferring an "unemployed carer," then sought ejectment claiming Ms Torgbor was a mere licensee. The court rejected his defence that the ring only "warded off suitors."
Justice Kwadam noted modern relationships often involve substantial investments based on informal marriage promises, creating enforceable equitable interests despite lacking formal contracts.
Vince retains legal ownership but cannot evict Ms Torgbor, whose contributions equity must protect.
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