The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Weija-Gbawe, Felix Odartey Lamptey, has called for strict action against individuals who sell lands in waterways, following the recent flooding and Weija Dam spillage that has displaced residents in parts of Accra.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he said many people knowingly purchase and build on lands within flood-prone and waterlogged areas, contributing to the recurring disaster.
“When people are buying land, they should know that these are waterlogged areas, yet they still go ahead to build there. The dam was created so that water can pass through,” he said.
He added that those involved in selling such lands should be ashamed of their actions.
“Those who sold those lands should bow their heads in shame for selling to people,” he stated.
Mr Lamptey called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, including traditional authorities, to prevent future occurrences.
“I am calling on all stakeholders to be part of this and not allow this to happen again, just as the Ga Mantse has said,” he noted.
He also warned residents not to assume safety once water levels begin to drop.
“Even if the water goes down, those staying around those areas should not think they are safe,” he cautioned.
The MCE stressed that any decisions taken to address the situation must be accepted in good faith, adding that authorities were prepared to take tougher measures going forward.
“We are going to be radical about it so this will not happen again,” he said. “It’s not about demolition for demolition’s sake, but we all have a role in what is happening.”
He further urged against politicising the issue, saying many homes had already been affected.
“I don’t want to see this again in my constituency where people suffer whenever it rains heavily. This is not the time for sensationalism,” he added.
Mr Lamptey noted that he had been in office for about a year and believed human behaviour and poor land-use practices were partly to blame for the situation.
His comments come after the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, called for tough action against chiefs accused of selling lands on waterways and flood-prone areas, warning that the practice is worsening flooding in parts of Accra.
During a visit to affected communities on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Ga Mantse said traditional leaders found culpable should face arrest and prosecution.
The flooding, triggered by the Weija Dam spillage, has displaced several residents, submerged homes and shops, and forced many families to evacuate their belongings.
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