Ghana Hostels Limited has firmly rejected viral claims that fees at Legon’s Pent Hall have been increased by 90 percent, describing the circulating information as “false, malicious, and a complete fabrication.”
In an official statement dated May 4, 2026, management of the hostel facility clarified that no such increment has been approved and that the widely shared graphic allegedly originating from a media platform was doctored using unauthorised branding.
The clarification comes amid rising concerns among students and parents following the rapid spread of the claim across social media platforms. According to management, the misleading post was deliberately designed to create panic and confusion within the student community, particularly at University of Ghana, where Pent Hall remains one of the most recognised private hostel facilities.
Management emphasised that all official communication regarding fees and policies is strictly disseminated through verified platforms, including the organisation’s official website and recognised student leadership channels such as the Pent Hall JCR portals. Any deviation from these channels, they noted, should be treated with caution.
“The image in circulation is a doctored graphic. It uses unauthorized branding and does not reflect any official announcement made by our management or our media partners,” the statement said.
The hostel operator also stressed that fee adjustments, when necessary, follow a structured process involving internal reviews and alignment with regulatory expectations as well as engagement with key university stakeholders. This, they noted, makes sudden and drastic increments such as a 90 percent hike highly unlikely without formal notice.
Importantly, Ghana Hostels Limited reiterated its positioning within the campus accommodation market, stating that it continues to offer some of the most affordable private hostel rates available at the university. Management further highlighted that utility costs are fully absorbed within its pricing structure, a factor that distinguishes it from several competing facilities where students often bear additional charges.
The statement also carried a strong warning to the public regarding the dangers of misinformation. Students, parents, and media outlets were urged to verify all claims before sharing, as the spread of false information can destabilise academic environments and create unnecessary anxiety.
This development reflects a broader issue within Ghana’s digital information space, where unverified content can quickly gain traction, especially in sensitive areas such as education, finance, and public policy. With increasing reliance on social media for updates, institutions are facing growing pressure to respond swiftly to misinformation to protect their reputation and maintain public trust.
Management indicated that investigations are already underway to identify the source of the fabricated content. It warned that legal action may be pursued against individuals or groups found responsible for creating or disseminating the false claims.
For students, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of relying on credible and official sources of information, particularly when it involves financial commitments such as accommodation fees. For institutions, it highlights the need for proactive communication strategies in an era where misinformation can spread faster than official clarifications.
Despite the controversy, Ghana Hostels Limited reaffirmed its commitment to providing safe, affordable, and conducive accommodation for students across its various campuses, including Accra, Kumasi, Cape Coast, Winneba, and Tamale.
As the situation stabilises, attention is likely to shift toward ensuring stronger information verification practices within the student community, while authorities work to hold accountable those responsible for the false publication.